What tensions are rising among the desperate migrants on board?

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Rising Tensions Among Migrants on Board

Migrants on the vessel are experiencing escalating hunger and internal conflict, with concerns of open violence, including potential fatalities, among those on board. The situation is exacerbated by a group of individuals, referred to as "agents," who have assumed control of the boat, hoarding essential supplies like food and water, while a portion of the passengers are actively opposing their decisions.
Hoarding of Supplies and Control by Agents

The boat is reportedly under the command of two or three individuals identified as "agents" who are controlling the vessel and its direction. These agents have been accused of hoarding food and water that were provided to the migrants, leading to severe shortages. This action has resulted in women and children not receiving adequate sustenance, as highlighted by a Thai navy officer who stated that the agents had to be compelled to share food when the boat was first intercepted.
Passenger Opposition and Potential for Violence

Tensions are mounting as some passengers are objecting to the decisions made by the agents controlling the boat. This internal dissent, coupled with the severe hunger and desperation, has led to fears of open conflict. Reports suggest that the situation could escalate to a point where individuals might turn on each other, with one source indicating the possibility of migrants killing one another.
Suspected Sabotage of the Engine

Further complicating the dire circumstances, the boat's engine was discovered with water in it, raising suspicions of sabotage. While not explicitly confirmed, this finding suggests a potential act of deliberate damage aimed at preventing the vessel from reaching its intended destination or facilitating its continued movement. The engine was reportedly found in this condition on the day Reuters journalists observed the boat being towed by a Thai navy vessel.

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What tensions are rising among the desperate migrants on board?

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