Hundreds of foreign fisherman were rescued from an isolated island on Friday. Indonesian officials are investigating reported abuses in the fishing industry. Out of concern for the men’s safety, Indonesian rescue boats offered to take the men away from the island.
When word spread that help had arrived, the men, some from Cambodia and Myanmar, rushed to the boats. Some jumped through windows to ensure they wouldn’t be left behind.
Indonesia Boats Rescue Foreign Fisherman
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By editor on 2015-04-04 Thaivisa News
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Ship on a mooring about tropical island. Thailand. Ko Larn. STOCK PHOTO
Hundreds of foreign fisherman were rescued from an isolated island on Friday. Indonesian officials are investigating reported abuses in the fishing industry. Out of concern for the men’s safety, Indonesian rescue boats offered to take the men away from the island.
When word spread that help had arrived, the men, some from Cambodia and Myanmar, rushed to the boats. Some jumped through windows to ensure they wouldn’t be left behind.
The small boat stopped at several trawlers to pick up men who wanted to leave. The boat was soon filled with 30 men.
Any fishermen who were Thai nationals were left on the island. The majority of the boat’s captains were from Thailand.
Initially, 20 men from Myanmar were given word that they would be moved from Benjina village to Tual Island for their safety after being interviewed by Indonesian officials on Friday. When news spread that the men were leaving the island, many others filed in and sat on the floor, hoping for a chance to follow.
Asep Burhundun, an Indonesian official, was asked if men who were hiding in the jungle could come as well. The official stated that all the men could come, and they did not want to leave anyone behind.
Benjina village has limited security. Only two people from the Indonesian navy are stationed there. Out of concern for the men’s safety, officials moved them to a nearby island, which was a 12-hour boat ride away. Once they arrive, the men will stay at the Ministry of Fisheries facility and their identities will be verified.
thaivisa.com 2015-04-03