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Kolkata, Nov 20 (IANS) The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) on Thursday intercepted a Bangladeshi fishing vessel along with its 28 crew members for illegal fishing inside India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The officers provided this information.
The ship was intercepted during routine patrol and taken to Fraserganj, West Bengal. Later, the boat including its crew was handed over to the state marine police for legal proceedings.
Officials said the operation was conducted as per standard operating procedures to protect India’s sovereign rights over its marine resources.
This is the fourth such seizure in a week and reflects the increased vigilance and patrolling of the Coast Guard along the eastern seaboard. He said the ICG has intensified patrolling in the last few weeks to prevent illegal fishing and conserve marine biodiversity.
The CG said its role as the country’s first responder at sea extends beyond search and rescue to ensure maritime safety.
“This operation underlines our firm commitment to protect India’s maritime boundaries and secure its marine resources,” an official statement said.
While repeated incidents of illegal fishing raise concerns of resource exploitation and violation of maritime boundaries, the captured crew are likely to face legal proceedings under applicable laws of India.
–IANS
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