More than 30 Thai fishermen were detained in Myanmar waters following a deadly encounter involving fishing vessels, according to Suwat Donsakul, a naval commander in Thailand’s southern province of Ranong.

Speaking to AFP, Suwat confirmed, "One Thai fisherman drowned and 31 people were taken into Myanmar," though he did not specify who was responsible for the detentions.

Suwat revealed that several Thai fishing boats were operating within Myanmar’s waters during the incident, and the deceased "jumped into the water during the attack."

Efforts are underway to secure the release of the detained crew members. Suwat stated that local authorities have been instructed to negotiate with their Myanmar counterparts, while a spokesperson for Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed plans to engage in similar talks.

AFP has sought comments from Myanmar’s junta government regarding the incident.

In response to the attack, the Ranong provincial fisheries department issued a warning to fishers and vessel owners, advising them to avoid areas near the Thai-Myanmar maritime border.

The department noted in a statement that "Myanmar armed fishing boats" had attacked Thai vessels about 20 kilometers west of Phayam Island, off Thailand’s coast. The statement did not clarify the identity of the alleged attackers but urged "all fishing operators and vessel owners to be cautious when navigating near the border."

Thailand and Myanmar share roughly 1,500 miles of land and maritime borders, including stretches in the Andaman Sea.

The incident comes amid longstanding tensions over illegal fishing activities. According to a notice on Thailand’s fisheries department website, Thai fishing boats have been operating unlawfully in Myanmar waters, contributing to disputes between the neighboring nations.

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