727 'Bangladeshi' migrants arrested: Myanmar navy

There are about 608 males, 74 females and 45 children on board. It is claimed they left Bangladesh and went to Thailand in three boats in an attempt to find work in Malaysia. On arrival in Thailand they reportedly failed to meet their contact and tried to avoid the authorities. They were then sent back to sea and told to return to Bangladesh, the navy claims. On their way back to Bangladesh, the Myanmar Navy said it intercepted them.

 

An unnamed naval officer said: “Thailand put these people on boats and sent them out of Thai waters. It’s been 10 days since they left Thailand, according to the migrants. The navy is now sending them to the Haigyi island naval port. After interrogating them, we will make detailed plans about what to do next.” 

 

Pyapon Township police confirmed the migrants’ detention.