After a Month in Detention by Thai Authorities, 13 East Aceh Fishermen Finally Repatriated

EAST ACEH, KOMPAS.com – A total of 13 fishermen from East Aceh were repatriated from Thailand after being detained by the Kingdom of Thailand authorities on charges of fish theft in Malaysian waters.

The 13 fishermen were flown to Kualanamu International Airport (KNO) in Deli Serdang, North Sumatra, before traveling by land to East Aceh.

They were welcomed by East Aceh Regent Iskandar Usman Al-Farlaky and Chairman of the East Aceh TP-PKK, Lismawani Iskandar Al-Farlaky, at the East Aceh Regent’s Pavilion on Saturday (9/19/2026) around 11:15 p.m. Western Indonesia Time.

"I am grateful for the cooperation between the Aceh Government, the East Aceh Regency Government, and the central government in facilitating the return of these 13 fishermen," said Iskandar.

Several family members of the fishermen came to the regent’s pavilion. Tears flowed after being apart for more than a month.

The regent stated that besides welcoming their return, the East Aceh government also provided financial assistance and other aid to the fishermen as a form of local government concern.

Al-Farlaky reminded the fishermen to better understand the territorial boundaries at sea when fishing.

He explained that territorial boundary issues could have legal implications if fishermen entered another country’s waters.

He also urged the Panglima Laot, the traditional customary institution of the Aceh fishing community, together with relevant agencies, to continue socializing and educating fishermen about maritime boundaries, especially areas close to neighboring countries’ territories.

"We must ensure our fishermen do not re-enter foreign waters. Therefore, comprehension of maritime boundaries must be continually disseminated," Al-Farlaky said.

He added that attention to fishermen should not only be given when they face problems.

"Hence, education and prevention are crucial so that fishing activities can proceed safely and avoid causing cross-border legal issues," concluded Regent Al-Farlaky.

It is worth noting that the 13 fishermen were previously arrested by Thai authorities while fishing in their waters. One was the captain, while the remaining 12 were crewmembers.