Thailand releases Cambodian fishermen captured off Koh Kong

Koh Kong Governor Chhi Va (L) shares the joy of the families upon the safe return of the fishermen from Thailand. Koh Kong Provincial Administration

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Synopsis: Four men detained by the Thai navy while fishing in Cambodian waters are reunited with their families following successful negotiations.

The Cambodian fishermen who were detained by Thailand earlier this month have been reunited with their families following their release.

Koh Kong Provincial Governor Chhi Va yesterday welcomed the return of the four fishermen, who were arrested by Thai authorities while they were fishing in Cambodian waters off Koh Kong province last week, according to an announcement on the provincial administration’s website.

Va received the fishermen and their relatives, sharing in their emotional reunion. She conveyed greetings and concern from national and provincial leaders, saying the government had closely followed the case from the day of their capture.

“The leadership at all levels, especially the head of the Royal Government, has paid close attention to this matter since the incident occurred. Today, we are pleased to see a positive outcome,” she told the fishermen and their families.

Va urged local fishing communities to exercise caution when venturing out to sea, and called on the public to place trust in the government while rejecting misinformation and unverified rumours that could cause unnecessary fear or confusion.

“Please conduct fishing activities carefully, believe in the government’s efforts, and do not be misled by fake news or incitement from individuals without credible sources,” she said.

Tey Choeun, 48, Kong Baraing, 42, Nob Kimheng, 17, and Chem Pheng, 55 were apprehended by the Thai navy on January 6 while fishing off the coast of Koh Kong province.

According to Bak Khlang Commune Police Chief Major Lay Sophath, the Thai naval vessel entered waters near Koh Yor island, an area he said lies within Cambodian maritime territory. The fishermen were reportedly about 19 kilometres from Thailand’s Trat province when they were detained. Their boat was confiscated, and they were held at Thai naval headquarters in Trat province.

Major Sophath said the men were not fishing in Thai waters at the time of their arrest. Provincial authorities in Koh Kong said they engaged in negotiations with their Thai counterparts to secure the fishermen’s release.

Mom Malika, spokesman for Koh Kong Provincial Administration, said the four fishermen were released thanks to effective coordination by Koh Kong authorities.

-Khmer Times-