Ship owner fined over Thailand incident

OWNERS of a container ship that spectacularly caught in Thailand have been fined THB50,000, or around AU$2280.

Images of South Korean vessel KMTC Hongkong (IMO 9157753) ablaze at Laem Chabang harbour, south of Bangkok, were shown around the world.

Local media has reported criticisms from local environmental activists at what they consider the small size of the fine.

More than 1000 people are reported to have filed complaints with the Laem Chabang local government after the incident relating to injuries and property damage.

KMTC Hongkong was launched in 1998, making it an older vessel, and is 169metres long and 27 metres in beam. Further investigations are expected.