The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that human remains have been discovered aboard the damaged vessel Mayuree Naree, following a fire and subsequent flooding in the ship’s engine room.
In a statement, the Ministry provided an update on the Thai commercial vessel, which was involved in a serious maritime incident while transiting the Strait of Hormuz last month.
According to the Ministry, Precious Shipping PLC, the vessel’s owner, reported on 3 April 2026 that a specialised search and rescue team had successfully boarded the ship for a second time.
Despite difficult conditions, including extensive fire damage and a flooded engine room, the team carried out a detailed inspection of all accessible areas of the vessel.
During the operation, human remains were discovered within the damaged sections of the ship. However, authorities have not yet been able to confirm the identities of the deceased due to the severity of the damage.
The company has informed the families of the three missing crew members of the latest developments.
The Ministry expressed deep sorrow over the discovery and said it would work closely with Thai embassies, Iranian authorities and forensic experts to expedite the identification process.
In its statement, the Ministry also called for restraint amid ongoing regional tensions.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs calls on all parties concerned to return to dialogue at the earliest opportunity to bring an end to the conflict in accordance with international law, while ensuring the safety of civilians and freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.”
The Mayuree Naree, a bulk carrier, was transiting the Strait of Hormuz on 11 March 2026 when it was caught in the crossfire of escalating hostilities in the region.
While the exact cause of the strike remains under investigation, the vessel sustained significant damage to its aft section, triggering a major fire and subsequent flooding of its mechanical compartments.
The Strait of Hormuz is widely regarded as one of the world’s most sensitive maritime chokepoints.
In recent months, the area has seen a rise in vessel-related incidents, including drone strikes and naval confrontations between regional powers.
The escalation has heightened risks for commercial shipping and civilian seafarers, prompting renewed international calls for increased maritime security and diplomatic intervention.
