In a meticulously executed sea-air maneuver, the Indian Coast Guard intercepted and detained an Iranian fishing vessel in the Arabian Sea, near Kerala’s shoreline. The vessel, carrying six Indian crew members employed under contract in Iran, was apprehended amidst allegations of exploitation and mistreatment by the vessel’s proprietor.
Responding promptly to reports of mistreatment, the India Coast Guard (ICG) showcased unwavering dedication to maritime security and welfare. The detained vessel was swiftly escorted to Kochi for thorough investigation to validate the claims and implement necessary measures.
This interception underscores the imperative of maintaining maritime security and ensuring the rights and welfare of crew members navigating international waters. The decisive action by the ICG underscores their commitment to enforcing maritime regulations, safeguarding the well-being of seafarers.
“In a swift sea-air coordinated operation, @IndiaCoastGuard intercepts & detains #Iranian fishing vessel in #ArabianSea off #Kerala coast with 06 #Indian crew alleging exploitation & mistreatment,” stated the India Coast Guard in a social media update, emphasizing their steadfast commitment to maritime security and welfare.
Further details concerning the alleged exploitation or the conditions aboard the detained vessel have not been disclosed by authorities.
In a separate incident on May 1, the India Coast Guard Ship C-153 displayed rapid response, conducting a medical evacuation of a 40-year-old fisherman from IFB Francis II (registered in Goa), who had sustained a head injury. The operation, positioned 70 nautical miles south of Veraval, was successfully carried out at 1805 hrs on May 1. Following the evacuation, the ICG Ship provided initial medical aid and safely transported the fisherman to Veraval.
On April 29, in successive Anti-Narcotics Operations, the India Coast Guard Ship, in collaboration with ATS Gujarat, apprehended a fishing boat carrying 173 kg of narcotics and two perpetrators at sea. This operation followed the seizure of a Pakistani Fishing Boat on April 28.