Battery Explosion Injures Crewman Off Phuket’s Cape Panwa
PHUKET, Thailand – A fishing trip turned dangerous when a battery explosion aboard the L. Thanakorn trawler left one crew member seriously injured off the coast of Cape Panwa on April 3.
The Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Centre Region 3 (Thai MECC 3) received a distress call at 5:45 PM, reporting that a crewman had suffered severe injuries to his arms and torso. Despite the trauma, the victim remained conscious and responsive, assisting in communication with rescuers.
Emergency Response and Medical Aid
Following the explosion, the crew quickly requested medical support and prepared the vessel for an emergency return to shore. Thai MECC 3 coordinated a response, instructing the boat to dock at the Third Area Command pier at Cape Panwa while mobilizing local emergency services.
At 7:15 PM, the injured crewman arrived at the pier, where rescue workers provided first aid before transferring him to Vachira Phuket Hospital for further treatment. Authorities have not yet disclosed his current condition.
Investigation Underway
Officials have yet to confirm the cause of the explosion, leaving questions about battery safety and onboard protocols. Thai MECC 3 is expected to investigate whether safety regulations were followed and if similar vessels may face the same risk.
Recent Boat Incidents Raise Safety Concerns
This incident follows another serious maritime accident in Phuket on April 1, when a speedboat explosion near Koh Mai Thon injured six people. The Thana Marine 555, carrying 33 tourists, caught fire after experiencing engine trouble, requiring an urgent rescue operation.
With two boat-related explosions occurring within days, authorities are under pressure to review safety standards and prevent future maritime accidents.
