Port Blair, Sept. 17: In a swift Sea – Air coordinated operation, the Indian Coast Guard on 17 Sep 19, apprehended two Myanmarese fishing dinghies with 24 poachers which were illegally fishing in Indian waters on west coast of South Andaman. The dinghies were first sighted by Coast Guard helicopter on patrol. The Indian Coast Guard Ship Vishwast which was on patrol was diverted to the area for investigation.

The Myanmarese boats were engaged in illegal poaching / fishing activity in the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone which was in clear violation to the Maritime Zones of India Act 1981. On being detected by the ICG helicopter the fishing dinghies tried to evade apprehension and they carried out evasive maneuvers to avoid apprehension. However, the Coast Guard ship and helicopter successfully intercepted the fleeing vessels along with its crew. The boats and the poachers are being escorted to Port Blair for further investigation. 

The Coast Guard PRO added that Coast Guard ships and aircraft are on patrol 24 x 7, monitoring activities in the Indian EEZ and protecting the sovereign rights of our country within the Maritime Zones. In case of any violations of the Indian laws and regulations, Indian Coast Guard units promptly take action against the defaulting vessels.