Why Were 79 Bangladeshi Fishermen Arrested? Three Fishing Boats Seized
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Synopsis
In a significant operation, the Indian Coast Guard apprehended 79 Bangladeshi fishermen and seized three fishing boats for illegal fishing activities within Indian waters. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges in maritime law enforcement.
Key Takeaways
- 79 Bangladeshi fishermen apprehended for illegal fishing.
- Three fishing boats seized within Indian waters.
- Operations conducted by the Indian Coast Guard.
- Continued vigilance in the Bay of Bengal.
- Highlighting the enforcement of maritime laws.
Kolkata, Nov 17 (NationPress) The Indian Coast Guard detained three Bangladeshi fishing vessels within Indian territorial waters on November 15 and 16, as reported by a Ministry of Defence (MoD) spokesperson.
According to the official, a total of 79 fishermen and crew members, including three minors, were apprehended.
“Indian Coast Guard ships Amrit Kaur and Kamla Devi were conducting surveillance patrols along the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) when they discovered the fishing boats operating in Indian territory,” he noted.
The official stated that they were illegally fishing within India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), with the Bangladeshi vessels operating two nautical miles inside Indian waters, indicating a clear violation rather than an accidental crossover.
This act contravenes the Maritime Zones of India (Regulation of Fishing by Foreign Vessels) Act, 1981 (MZI Act). The Indian Coast Guard boarding teams intercepted, boarded, and thoroughly searched the Bangladeshi fishing boats, according to the MoD spokesperson.
“None of the crews aboard the three Bangladeshi fishing vessels possessed valid authorization or permits to fish in India’s maritime zones. The fishing gear and catch provided ample evidence of their operations in Indian waters,” he added.
The fishing boats and their crews were escorted to Frazerganj in West Bengal and handed over to marine police for appropriate legal action.
“This apprehension underscores the Indian Coast Guard’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding India’s maritime interests, curbing illegal fishing, and ensuring the safety of Indian fishermen operating in domestic waters,” an official emphasized.
“The Indian Coast Guard maintains continuous vigilance in the Bay of Bengal through 24/7 surface and aerial surveillance to enforce maritime regulations and protect national maritime assets,” he remarked.
Currently, there are 39 Bangladeshi fishermen in Indian custody, while a significant number of Indian fishermen remain in custody in Bangladesh.
Point of View
The apprehension of Bangladeshi fishermen highlights the importance of enforcing maritime laws. It reflects India's proactive stance in protecting its resources and ensuring the safety of its fishermen. The ongoing vigilance in the Bay of Bengal serves as a reminder of the complexities in international waters and the need for cooperation to address illegal fishing.
NationPress
17/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the arrest of the Bangladeshi fishermen?
The Indian Coast Guard apprehended the fishermen for illegally fishing within India's Exclusive Economic Zone, violating maritime laws.
How many fishermen were arrested?
A total of 79 fishermen and crew members were taken into custody, including three minors.
What actions were taken against the fishing boats?
The boats were intercepted, boarded, and thoroughly searched by the Indian Coast Guard, leading to the confiscation of their catch and gear.
Where were the apprehended fishermen taken?
The fishermen and their boats were escorted to Frazerganj in West Bengal and handed over to marine police for legal proceedings.
What is the significance of this incident?
This incident underscores the Indian Coast Guard's commitment to enforcing maritime laws and protecting national interests in the Bay of Bengal.
