Order to Expedite Return of Thai Crew Members from Myanmar.

Bangkok: In an urgent move to resolve a maritime incident, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Phumtham Vejjayachai has instructed the Thai-Myanmar Border Coordination Center and the Thai-Myanmar Local Border Committee (TBC) to coordinate with Myanmar authorities to expedite the return of four Thai crew members today. This directive follows an incident involving a Myanmar warship's shooting at a Thai fishing vessel. According to Thai News Agency, Maj. Gen. Thanathip Sawangsaeng, spokesman for the Ministry of Defense, has provided updates on the ongoing situation. The TBC has already lodged a formal protest with the Myanmar Navy base in Kawthaung, in response to the shooting incident. While the four Thai crew members are expected to return promptly, 27 Myanmar nationals involved in the incident are currently being questioned by Myanmar officials, and one vessel is in the process of being returned. The TBC committee is actively working to gather and verify facts surrounding the incident. This includ es reviewing the sequence of events from the departure of 15 ships to the location and circumstances under which the Myanmar forces opened fire. The committee's efforts are focused on clarifying these details to ensure a swift resolution and the safe return of Thai nationals.