Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata

Kolkata, Nov 17: The Indian Coast Guard intercepted three Bangladeshi fishing vessels inside India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) on November 15 and 16, taking 79 fishermen and crew, including three minors, into custody, a Ministry of Defence spokesperson said.

The Coast Guard ships Amrit Kaur and Kamla Devi apprehended the vessels two nautical miles inside Indian waters during routine patrols along the International Maritime Boundary Line. Officials confirmed the boats lacked valid permits, and evidence from fishing gear and catch showed they were illegally operating in Indian waters, violating the Maritime Zones of India (Regulation of Fishing by Foreign Vessels) Act, 1981.

The boats and crews were escorted to Frazerganj in West Bengal and handed over to the marine police for legal action. The MoD highlighted that the interception reflects India’s ongoing vigilance in safeguarding its maritime boundaries and preventing illegal fishing.

Currently, 39 Bangladeshi fishermen remain in Indian custody, while several Indian fishermen are held in Bangladesh.