Thai police have reportedly filed a charge against the leader of a traditional fishery group for not notifying the authorities before holding a rally at Government House.
The police last week summoned Sama-ae Jehmudor, President of the Federation of Thai Fisher Folk Association to hear charges at Nang Loeng Police Station on 22 February 2016, according to Banjong Nasae, Rak Thale Thai (Love Thai Sea) Association President.
The charge under the 2015 Public Assembly Act carries a fine of up to 10,000 baht.
The police summons refers to the activities of the artisanal fishers from 18 provinces on 4 February. They gathered at Government House before being allowed to meet the PM to complain about the 2015 Fishery Act which prohibits small fishing boats from fishing beyond the three mile limit. Before the meeting the group showed the media fishery products that could be found within the three mile limit and beyond.
“We were waiting for half day then we met a Minister. We talked with the Minister until we found a solution while the Prime Minister chaired the meeting. But out of the blue, today a summons was issued,” wrote Banjong on his Facebook page. “Can anyone tell me what the difference is between a rally and waiting to meet the Minister?”
The summons. Photo courtesy of Banjong Nasae
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