Thai fishermen's deportation

I am writing in response to the news report titled Thai fishermen deported published in The Jakarta Post on Aug. 28. The said news reported that the South Sumatra Police deported on Aug. 27, 36 Thai fishermen who were detained in August last year for illegally fishing in Indonesian territorial waters.

The report further quoted a South Sumatra Police officer's as follows: (1) "The deportation was paid for by local residents and businesspeople" and (2) "We deported them because the Royal Thai Embassy in Jakarta did not pay attention to their plight."

I am deeply concerned about the said report and therefore very much obliged to clarify to you and through you to the readers on what should be the real issue as follows: 1. The Royal Thai Embassy adheres to the government of Thailand's policy on encouraging all Thai vessels to respect and comply with all related laws and regulations of the host countries. 2. The Royal Thai Embassy appreciates all the kind assistance and cooperation the Indonesian people and authorities concerned have rendered to the Thai fishermen. It also appreciates the Indonesian authorities concerned who have regularly notified the embassy of information relating to the detention and release of Thai fishermen.

Most importantly, in the past when the Royal Thai Embassy was asked to help repatriate Thai fishermen, we never denied our responsibility. On the contrary, we thank the authorities concerned who notified us and responded and cooperated with such a kind request on all cases. 3. It is unfortunate to find that there is no information regarding the above mentioned 36 Thai fishermen in the embassy's records.

It is therefore my earnest hope that you will understand the above clarification.

SOMSAK LIKANAJULE

Minister

Royal Thai Embassy

Jakarta