Nineteen East Aceh Fishermen Arrested by Thai Authorities for Alleged Illegal Fishing in Phuket Waters

Jakarta — A total of 19 Indonesian nationals (WNI) who are fishermen from East Aceh have been arrested by Thai authorities following alleged illegal fishing operations in Phuket waters.

Heni Hamidah, Acting Director of Indonesian Citizens Protection at Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry, confirmed the arrest. She stated that the incident occurred on 10 March 2026 in the maritime operational area of Phuket waters, Thailand.

“During that operation, 19 Indonesian nationals who were crew members of fishing vessels were detained by local authorities. Of the 19 crew members, one is a child aged 16 years old,” said Heni in a statement on Saturday (14 March 2026).

“The KRI Songkhla continues to coordinate with Thai authorities to ensure the case is handled in accordance with procedures, particularly concerning the child crew member,” she added.

Heni said that the Indonesian nationals are currently being held in judicial custody in Phuket. They are also potentially liable to be transferred to Phuket Provincial Prison to undergo further legal proceedings.

Based on initial communication with the Indonesian nationals, all were reported to be in good health.

“The Indonesian representative will continue to monitor developments in this case and ensure that the rights of the Indonesian nationals are protected during the legal proceedings in Thailand,” she concluded.

Initial information regarding the arrest of the 19 East Aceh fishermen was previously conveyed by the East Aceh Regent, Iskandar Usman Al-Farlaky.

He stated that the arrest was identified by the Port Authority of the Nusantara Fishing Port in Idi, East Aceh. The fishermen were arrested whilst sailing in two different motor vessels.