SONGKHLA, Thailand – The Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Center Region 2 (MECC) was alerted by the Pattani Port Control Center about a fishing vessel named Rinrat that had capsized in the Gulf of Thailand on November 24. The Rinrat, a fish trap vessel weighing 30.39 gross tons, had five crew members onboard when it sank approximately 128 kilometers east of the Songkhla channel.
In response to the incident, The MECC immediately coordinated a rescue operation. The Naval Disaster Relief Task Force deployed multiple assets, including a Maritime Patrol Aircraft Type 1 (DO-228), a Transport Helicopter Type 4 (S-76B), and HTMS Pattani, accompanied by a special operations team. The rescue mission successfully saved all five crew members, who were airlifted aboard the S-76B helicopter and transported safely to the naval airbase in Songkhla.
This operation underscores the navy’s preparedness during the Northeast Monsoon Season, a time when rough seas increase the risk of maritime accidents. The 2nd Regional Navy continues to maintain a state of readiness with trained personnel and advanced equipment to respond swiftly to emergencies both on land and at sea.
For urgent maritime emergencies, assistance can be requested through the navy’s hotline at 1696, by calling 074-325-804, or via HF Radio Frequency 8290 MHz. The navy’s commitment to protecting lives and maritime interests is reflected in its motto: “Protect the Nation, Defend the Gulf, Unite for the People.”
