Three former crew members of the Thai cargo ship Mayuree Naree, which was struck by a projectile in the Strait of Hormuz in March, have filed a lawsuit against the vessel’s operator, Precious Shipping Co., citing labor rights violations and wrongful dismissal. The incident, which occurred on March 11, resulted in the deaths of three crew members, while the remaining 20 were rescued and returned to Thailand approximately a week later.
The plaintiffs, Panithi Tumkaew, Noppadon Wongsuvan, and Surades Manpuen, allege that the ship’s operator endangered their lives by navigating through a high-risk area. Their attorney, Kunpat Singhathong, noted that the men were terminated before their nine-month contracts ended, following the attack that rendered the ship inoperable. While they received compensation equivalent to two months’ salary, Kunpat argued that this amount was insufficient, especially as they have since been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, hindering their ability to work.
Attempts to negotiate with Precious Shipping were unsuccessful, prompting the legal action filed in Bangkok’s Central Labor Court. The plaintiffs are seeking over one million baht (approximately $30,000) each in compensation. Panithi, who has worked with the company for over a decade, reported experiencing symptoms of PTSD, such as being startled by loud noises, and is now reliant on medication.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding the safety of seafarers in the Persian Gulf amid rising tensions. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical shipping route, and the conflict has raised alarms for nations like India, the Philippines, and Thailand, which supply a significant number of maritime crew members. The United Nations’ International Maritime Organization has emphasized the human cost of such conflicts, reiterating the importance of addressing the safety of seafarers.
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