BANGKOK, Thailand – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced that Myanmar has released 152 Thai prisoners, January 5. However, the four Thai fishermen who were arrested and imprisoned in December 2024 are not among those freed.
The Ministry expressed disappointment over the exclusion of the four fishermen from the recent release, noting that the process for their release is still under consideration by Myanmar authorities. Efforts to secure their freedom continue through diplomatic channels.
Thai officials, including the embassy in Yangon, have been actively working with Myanmar authorities to expedite the fishermen’s release.
On January 3, embassy staff facilitated a visit by the fishermen’s relatives to their detention site in Kawthaung, Tanintharyi Region. The fishermen were reported to be in good health and spirits, receiving adequate care and meals. Essential supplies were also provided to them during the visit.
The Ministry highlighted the sensitivity of the case, which involves not only the release of the detained fishermen but also broader issues related to fishing rights and bilateral relations between Thailand and Myanmar. Moving forward, efforts will focus on:
- Continuing diplomatic negotiations to expedite the release of the four fishermen.
- Addressing broader issues through the Thai-Myanmar Border Committee (TBC) mechanism to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Ministry reassured the public that it remains committed to exhausting all avenues to secure the release of the detained fishermen as quickly as possible. (TNA)
