Phuket – A 47-year-old Thai fisherman remains missing after his vessel capsized in waters off Pa Khlok subdistrict, prompting an ongoing multi-agency search operation led by the Royal Thai Navy. The incident marks the latest maritime emergency in Phuket’s increasingly busy fishing grounds.

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The fishing boat overturned during routine operations near Thalang district on Monday morning, with rough sea conditions believed to be a contributing factor. Thai-MECC 3 naval authorities immediately deployed search teams after receiving distress signals, but failed to locate the missing crewman despite hours of intensive patrolling.

After daylight search efforts proved unsuccessful on Monday, rescue teams temporarily halted operations at nightfall due to deteriorating visibility and safety concerns. The coordinated search involving naval personnel, marine police, and local fishermen will resume at first light today, with additional assets expected to join the operation.

It is expected of strong winds and rough seas will occurs over W of Phuket waters for the next 24 hours. Moderate impact on small boat operations. pic.twitter.com/GUDrz0YZkd

— National Hydrographic Centre (@NatHydroCentre) June 23, 2025

Maritime officials noted the search area’s strong currents and choppy waters have complicated recovery efforts. The missing fisherman, whose identity remains withheld pending family notification, was reportedly not wearing a life jacket when the vessel capsized – a common but dangerous practice among local fishing crews.

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Pa Khlok’s tight-knit fishing community has mobilized supplementary search parties, with over a dozen private boats volunteering to assist official teams. The incident has reignited discussions about safety equipment mandates for small-scale fishermen operating in the Andaman Sea’s unpredictable waters.

-Thailand News (TN)