Former Crew Members Sue Over Hormuz Incident
Three ex-crew members of the Thai cargo vessel, Mayuree Naree, have initiated legal proceedings against their employer following an attack on the ship in the Strait of Hormuz. The ship was struck north of Oman on March 11, leading to the deaths of three personnel. The surviving 20 crew members were rescued and returned to Thailand.
The lawsuit, filed by Panithi Tumkaew, Noppadon Wongsuvan, and Surades Manpuen, targets Precious Shipping Co., its affiliates, and the ship’s captain. The claimants argue their lives were jeopardized by navigating the perilous strait. Their attorney, Kunpat Singhathong, stated the men were terminated before fulfilling their nine-month contracts, following the vessel’s incapacitation.
Compensation provided, equaling two months’ salary, was deemed insufficient as the plaintiffs have developed post-traumatic stress disorder, which has hindered their ability to continue maritime careers, according to their lawyer.
“We tried to negotiate with the company, but it denied responsibility, so we believe the matter should be brought to the court,” said Kunpat before the case was submitted to Bangkok’s Central Labor Court. The compensation sought exceeds a million baht ($30,000) per individual, though the precise amount remains undisclosed.
Panithi, a decade-long employee of Precious Shipping, shared that behavioral changes noticed by his wife prompted him to seek medical aid. “When there are loud noises, I’ll get startled,” he mentioned. “I can’t work now, and I have to take medication.”
Despite requests, Precious Shipping has not issued a comment on the lawsuit. The remains of the deceased crew members were repatriated earlier this month. In a July 3 statement, the company expressed gratitude for the repatriation efforts and condolences to the victims’ families, pledging ongoing support.
The incident occurred amidst renewed tensions, marked by recent U.S. airstrikes against Iran, which retaliated by targeting U.S. allies. This exchange disrupts efforts to conclude the ongoing Iran conflict.
The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global oil and gas shipments, has been significantly impacted, exacerbating energy challenges across Asia since the conflict’s onset in February. Concerns over the safety of seafarers in the Persian Gulf persist, especially among Asian countries like India, the Philippines, and Thailand, whose nationals frequently serve in maritime roles.
“This is not simply a matter of shipping statistics,” noted Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General of the United Nations’ International Maritime Organization. “Behind the figures are seafarers, and in some cases their families, who continue to bear the human cost of this conflict.”
