In a swift sea-air operation on May 5th, 2024, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) intercepted and detained an Iranian fishing vessel that illegally entered Indian waters off the coast of Kerala.
Key Details of the Incident:
- Illegal Entry and Detention: The Iranian vessel was apprehended west of Beypore with six Indian crew members on board.
- Swift Action by IGC: Ships and aircraft of the IGC were involved in the successful operation.
- Allegations of Exploitation: The Indian crew members allege mistreatment and exploitation by the Iranian boat owner.
- Further Investigation: The vessel has been brought to Kochi for a thorough investigation.
- Crew Safeguarding: The six Indian crew members, hailing from Tamil Nadu, are currently in the custody of the Indian authorities.
Prevention and Investigation:
Initial reports suggest that the Indian crew, who had been working in Iran for about 1.5 years, escaped from their employer due to alleged lack of pay, ill-treatment and even physical assault. They reportedly used the same fishing vessel to return to India.
Maintaining maritime safety and crew welfare:
The prompt action of the Indian Coast Guard highlights its commitment towards safeguarding maritime security and the welfare of Indian citizens at sea. This incident is a reminder of the potential risks faced by seafarers working abroad and the importance of ensuring their rights and safety are protected.
Previous ICG action:
It is notable that this interception follows another successful operation of the IGC on April 29, where they intercepted a fishing boat carrying a large quantity of narcotics in the Arabian Sea.
This incident underlines the vigilance of the Indian Coast Guard in safeguarding India’s maritime borders and its commitment to combat illegal activities at sea.
