Ranong, February 8th, 2025 – Thai authorities intercepted two Myanmar-flagged boats—one fishing vessel and one deep-hulled long-tail boat—near Ko Khangkhao, Ranong, detaining 13 crew members for illegally entering Thai waters.
The operation followed a tip-off from Phang Nga fishermen on February 7th about an unidentified vessel near the Phang Nga-Ranong maritime border.
Upon inspection, seven Myanmar crew members were found aboard, but the captain reportedly failed to present navigation documents or a national flag. The boat had been repainted with no visible name, and no fishing gear or cargo was found, raising suspicions about its true purpose.
Authorities also intercepted a three-engine long-tail boat attempting to deliver 1,600 liters of untaxed diesel. It carried six crew members, including five Myanmar nationals and one Thai from Koh Sin Hai, Ranong.
The detained crew members face five charges, including illegal entry into Thai waters, operating without proper documentation, failing to display a national flag, and smuggling diesel without customs clearance. Authorities are continuing their investigation.
This article originally appeared on our sister website The Pattaya News.
