BANGKOK, Thailand – Twenty crew members from the cargo vessel Mayuree Naree, who were affected by an attack near the Strait of Hormuz, arrived safely at Suvarnabhumi Airport on March 16, 2026, at 7:10 a.m.
The returning crew was welcomed by Deputy Director-General of the Department of Consular Affairs Bancha Yuenyongchongcharoen, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Information and Deputy Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Maratee Nalita Andamo, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour Pichet Thongphan, and Deputy Director-General of the Department of Labour Protection and Welfare Pongthep Petchsom.
Authorities informed the press that interviews would not be permitted at this time, as the crew members were extremely exhausted after their long journey.
Bancha stated that the rescue required close coordination with the Omani Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Royal Navy of Oman to bring the crew out of the conflict zone. The Royal Thai Embassy then worked with the vessel’s owner, Precious Shipping Public Company Limited, to arrange overland transport through the United Arab Emirates to Muscat, Oman, for the crew’s return flight.
Pongthep stated that the Ministry of Labour is actively working with the shipping company to ensure the crew receives all compensation and contractual benefits.
Maratee confirmed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs remains in close contact with relevant parties regarding the three crew members still in the region. She added that Foreign Affairs Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow recently had discussions with the Iranian Foreign Minister to seek assistance in facilitating their safe return to Thailand. (NNT)
