GOLDEN TRIANGLE – The search for 30 missing Myanmar migrant workers continues after their boat sank in the Mekong River near the Golden Triangle. The incident occurred when a small passenger boat, carrying around 40-50 people, left Ton Pheung in Bokeo Province, Laos, heading towards Pong Township, Tachileik District, Myanmar. The boat encountered engine failure and strong currents, causing it to capsize. At least 30 people are still missing, while around 10 others were rescued on the evening of September 2.
As of the morning of September 4, after two nights and two days, Lao authorities have not yet found any of the missing individuals. Rescue teams have been patrolling the river from the accident site down to Huay Xai, as the Mekong’s water level, despite dropping, remains over 5 meters deep with strong currents. It is feared that the bodies of the missing may have been carried far downstream, potentially reaching the border areas between Chiang Saen and Chiang Khong districts in Thailand.
Pol. Lt. Col. Badin Srion, an inspector at the Chiang Saen Marine Police Station, reported that Thai marine police have been monitoring the riverbanks on the Thai side, ready to assist any survivors who might drift ashore. However, no survivors or bodies have been found in Thai waters so far.
The Myanmar workers involved in the accident were reported to have been working illegally in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone in Ton Pheung. After authorities in the zone intensified crackdowns on illegal activities, including illegal entry and employment, the workers were deported back to Myanmar. They had chartered a Lao boat for their return journey, but overcrowding on the boat and the mechanical failure led to the tragic accident in the Mekong River. (TNA)
