ICG Foils Poaching Attempt in Bay of Bengal; Violators Handed Over to Marine Police for Legal Action
KOLKATA: The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has successfully apprehended three Bangladeshi fishing boats along with a total of 79 crew members for engaging in illegal fishing activities within Indian territorial waters in the northern Bay of Bengal.
The vessels were detected during routine surveillance operations conducted by the ICG on November 15th and 16th. The boats were found operating well within the limits of the Maritime Zones of India (MZI) Act, a clear violation of national maritime laws.
ICG boarding teams promptly intercepted and inspected the vessels. The inspection confirmed that none of the 79 crew members possessed any valid authorisation or permits to fish within the Maritime Zones of India. The presence of onboard fishing gear and freshly caught fish served as definitive proof of ongoing illegal fishing activity.
“This operation underscores the ICG’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding India’s maritime interests, deterring illegal fishing, and ensuring the safety and security of Indian fishermen operating in national waters,” an ICG spokesperson stated.
Upon arrival at Frazerganj, the seized boats and the apprehended personnel were handed over to the Marine Police for the initiation of further legal action in accordance with Indian law.
The successful operation was also highlighted as a demonstration of the seamless coordination between the Indian Coast Guard and the West Bengal Police in maintaining security along the maritime boundary.