The stricken Thai cargo vessel Mayuree Naree has drifted into Iranian waters, with efforts now being guided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to help the three remaining Thai crew members, according to the Thai navy chief.
The bulk carrier owned by Bangkok-based Precious Shipping was hit by two Iranian missiles on March 11. Twenty crew members escaped unharmed but three remain trapped onboard, believed to be in the damaged engine room.
The 20 crew members who escaped were cared for in Oman and returned to Thailand on Monday.
Adm Pairote Fuangchan, commander-in-chief of the Royal Thai Navy, said on Wednesday that the latest update came two days ago from the Omani navy, which has maintained close cooperation with Thailand.
He expressed his appreciation for Oman’s continued monitoring of the vessel and deployment of forces to track its movements.
However, the ship has since drifted across the maritime boundary into Iranian waters, making it impossible for Omani authorities to continue tracking it physically.
Should the vessel return to Omani waters, monitoring will resume, he said.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is now pursuing coordination with Iran and working to assist the three Thai crew members, he said.
The navy has issued six advisories in response to the evolving situation, warning Thai shipowners of risks in affected areas.
Alerts have included guidance to avoid conflict zones, warnings about possible sea mines, and satellite tracking disruptions, said Adm Pairote.
He said such measures are standard practice, similar to aviation safety updates, and the navy continues to monitor developments while coordinating with countries including Oman and the United Arab Emirates.
