BANDA ACEH - A DPD member from Aceh Sudirman alias Haji Uma received a report that 19 fishermen from East Aceh had been arrested by the Thai navy allegedly for crossing the country's maritime territorial boundaries.
"Today I just received a report from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in detail about the arrest through the Director of Protection of Indonesian Citizens Judha Nugraha," said Haji Uma, in Banda Aceh, quoted by Antara, Monday, January 31.
Haji Uma said, based on information received, on Thursday, January 27, the Thai navy had captured two Indonesian fishing vessels, each KM Sinar Makmur 05 (14 crew members) and KM Happy 05 (5 crew members).
According to Haji Uma, the Acehnese fishermen were caught in the waters west of Phuket about 38.5 NM from the coast. They will be charged with violating the Immigration Act and the Fisheries Act.
"Currently all are in good health and well. They are being held in a Phuket prison. There are two underage fishermen placed in a daycare home in the Phuket area," he said.
However, Haji Uma continued, he also received a report from the boat owner that in fact there were four fishermen who were underage, namely Akhi Maulana (17) Mujiburrahman (16) Muhammad Nazar (14) and another 17-year-old unknown.
"Regarding the difference between the two underage fishermen, we will again coordinate with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs," he said.
Haji Uma added that so far the Ministry of Foreign Affairs through KRI Songkhla continues to provide assistance and consular access related to the provision of legal assistance.
Haji Uma also reminded all Acehnese fishermen to always prioritize safety by respecting people's national borders.
"When this happens, who is in trouble, all of us are in trouble and restless, including the family," said Haji Uma.
Meanwhile, Deputy Secretary General of Panglima Laot Aceh Miftach Cut Adek also confirmed that the 19 Acehnese fishermen were arrested for crossing Thailand's territorial sea.
"They were arrested for entering Thai waters, the fishermen do not know the limits," said Miftach.
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