Divers Search Capsized Fishing Boat, Five Myanmar Crew Still Missing

September 23 — Search operations continue for five missing Myanmar crew members from the fishing vessel Songkanjanawar 888, which capsized in Chachoengsao waters. Divers deployed by the Royal Thai Navy Region 1, provincial authorities, and rescue foundation teams conducted a comprehensive search of the hull both inside and outside, including the surrounding net area, but found no trace of the five missing men.

The search mission, led by Navy Patrol Craft 112, involved personnel from Chachoengsao and divers from AC Diving team, along with rescue units from Sawarojonandharam Foundation in Sattahip and Sawangborirom Foundation in Pattaya. The operation began early in the morning, though teams faced storms and rough seas that slowed their journey to the wreck site.

When divers reached the capsized Songkanjanawar 888, they immediately launched an underwater search, as there were reports that crew members might be trapped inside. The dive team inspected the interior and exterior of the hull, the tangled nets, and surrounding areas thoroughly, but discovered no bodies or evidence of the missing crew. Authorities then expanded the search to the water surface and surrounding zone without success.

Pichit Glieakguttand, head of the Sawarojonandharam Foundation rescue unit, confirmed that divers had completed a detailed inspection but found no sign of the five missing crew members. After confirming nothing remained near the vessel, the operation ended and the team returned to port at 8 p.m.

The five missing Myanmar crew members are identified as: So Lae, 38; San Teekwe, 47; Nai Oo, 45; Tho Lui, 22; and Kin Mao Eh, 47. All remain unaccounted for. The fishing vessel Songkanjanawar 888 is now slated for salvage operations to be planned and executed based on weather conditions. The search continues as authorities hope to find clues and reunite the crew with their families.