The Navy spokesperson revealed that Navy Region 3 intercepted foreign fishing boats trespassing into Thai waters near Li Pe Island, confirming the use of force according to international procedures and proportionality principles following hostile behavior.
On 21 Feb 2025 GMT+7, Rear Admiral Parach Rattanachaiyaphan, the Navy spokesperson, stated that on 20 Feb, the Maritime National Interest Protection Center Region 3, under Navy Region 3, received reports from fishing networks about multiple foreign fishing vessels intruding into Thailand's territorial waters approximately 8 nautical miles east of Li Pe Island. The order was given for patrol boat T.994 to investigate. Upon arrival, about 8–10 foreign fishing boats were found operating within Thailand's territorial sea. Officials identified themselves and ordered the vessels to cease activities, but the group attempted to flee. During the interception, one fishing boat exhibited hostile behavior by steering toward patrol boat T.994, attempting to ram it, posing danger to personnel and equipment. The officers decided to fire warning shots proportionally to stop the vessel, successfully controlling one boat with three crew members, one of whom was injured. Subsequently, the captured fishing boat sank. After the incident, humanitarian aid was provided immediately; the injured suspect was sent to Satun Hospital in Satun Province, and the other two suspects were handed over to investigators for legal proceedings.
Rear Admiral Parach stated that the Navy affirms this operation complied with international law and proportionality principles in law enforcement, which are globally accepted practices. The focus remains on protecting maritime sovereignty and personnel safety, with paramount concern for human life. The Navy will continue to monitor and strictly enforce laws in Thai waters to protect marine resources and maintain maritime security, while promoting cooperation with neighboring countries to sustainably address illegal fishing issues.
