- A maritime dispute escalates tensions between Thailand and Myanmar
More than 30 crew members of Thai fishing boats were detained in Myanmar waters on Saturday, November 30, following a confrontation that left one fisherman dead. The incident underscores long-standing tensions over maritime borders and fishing rights in the Andaman Sea.
The altercation occurred approximately 20 kilometers west of Phayam Island, a Thai territory close to the maritime border with Myanmar. Suwat Donsakul, a naval commander in the southern Thai province of Ranong, confirmed the death of one Thai fisherman who reportedly “jumped into the water during the attack.” He also stated that 31 fishermen were subsequently taken into custody in Myanmar. The circumstances surrounding the detention remain unclear, and Myanmar’s authorities have not yet commented on the matter.
Reports indicate that several Thai fishing vessels were operating in Myanmar’s waters at the time of the encounter. According to a statement by the Ranong provincial fisheries department, “Myanmar armed fishing boats” attacked the Thai vessels, though the identity of the alleged attackers has not been explicitly confirmed.
The incident has sparked an urgent response from Thai authorities. Commander Suwat revealed that local officials had been instructed to initiate negotiations with Myanmar counterparts to secure the release of the detained fishermen. Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also confirmed its involvement, pledging diplomatic efforts to resolve the situation.
“We will engage with Myanmar’s authorities to ensure the safety and swift return of our nationals,” a ministry spokesperson said.
Myanmar’s military junta, which has controlled the country since a 2021 coup, has not yet issued a statement regarding the incident or the detainees.
In the wake of the confrontation, the Ranong provincial fisheries department has issued a stark warning to fishers and vessel owners operating near the Thai-Myanmar maritime border.
“All fishing operators and vessel owners are advised to exercise extreme caution when navigating near the border,” the department’s statement read. It specifically referenced the attack by “Myanmar armed fishing boats” and emphasized the risks of venturing into disputed waters.
The warning also highlights the growing tension between the two nations over illegal fishing. A notice on Thailand’s fisheries department website pointed out that Thai fishing boats have frequently been found operating illegally in Myanmar waters, exacerbating bilateral tensions.
The maritime and land borders between Thailand and Myanmar stretch approximately 2,400 kilometers, with portions running through the Andaman Sea. The delineation of these borders has been a source of friction for decades, often involving disputes over fishing zones, resource exploitation, and territorial sovereignty.
Myanmar has long accused Thai fishers of encroaching on its waters, while Thai authorities have grappled with curbing illegal fishing activities. The lucrative fishing industry in the region is a vital economic lifeline for both nations, but it has also become a flashpoint for conflict.
According to experts, incidents like this are emblematic of deeper issues, including unclear border demarcations and the lack of bilateral agreements addressing illegal fishing.
Beyond the geopolitical implications, the welfare of the detained fishermen has become a pressing concern. Families of those captured have expressed fears for their loved ones’ safety, given Myanmar’s political climate and the junta’s crackdown on dissent and perceived foreign interference.
“This is not just a matter of borders; it’s about people’s lives and livelihoods,” said Dr. Narongchai Preecha, an expert in Southeast Asian maritime law. He emphasized the need for collaborative measures to prevent future conflicts and protect those caught in the crossfire.
The incident has also reignited calls for enhanced regional cooperation to address illegal fishing and maritime disputes. Thailand and Myanmar are members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), a regional bloc that could facilitate dialogue and conflict resolution.
“ASEAN must take a more active role in mitigating such disputes,” said Professor Thida Win, a political analyst specializing in Myanmar-Thai relations. “Without a framework for managing these conflicts, the Andaman Sea will continue to be a hotspot for confrontations.”
