Indian Coast Guard Nabs 79 Bangladeshi Fishermen; Three Boats Seized for Breaching Indian Maritime Boundary
Reported By Akshata Pawar
Kolkata, 17th November 2025: In a major maritime enforcement action, the Indian Coast Guard has detained 79 Bangladeshi nationals, including three minors, after intercepting three foreign fishing boats operating deep inside India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the Northern Bay of Bengal. The incident marks one of the largest single-day apprehensions near the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) this year.
The interceptions were carried out during routine vigil by ICGS Amrit Kaur and ICGS Kamla Devi on November 15 and 16. Coast Guard aircraft and ships monitoring the IMBL picked up suspicious movement, prompting boarding teams to close in on the vessels.
A subsequent search revealed that the boats had crossed nearly two nautical miles into Indian territory, in violation of the Maritime Zones of India (Regulation of Fishing by Foreign Vessels) Act, 1981.
Crew Lacked Permits; Fresh Catch Confirms Illegal Fishing
During a detailed inspection, Coast Guard personnel found that none of the crew possessed mandatory fishing authorizations. The presence of active nets and freshly caught fish established that the vessels were engaged in illegal fishing operations inside Indian waters.
All three boats were escorted to Frazerganj, where the crew and vessels were handed over to the Marine Police for further legal proceedings.
Coast Guard officials said the action reflects the force’s proactive approach toward protecting marine resources and ensuring that foreign vessels do not exploit India’s EEZ.
“Every illegal intrusion poses risks to coastal security and undermines the livelihood of Indian fishermen. Our surveillance units remain alert round-the-clock,” an official noted.
The ICG continues to maintain constant surface and aerial patrols across the Bay of Bengal, enabling swift detection of unauthorized activities, timely enforcement of maritime laws, and stronger protection of India’s maritime borders.
