Indian Coast Guard Apprehends Bangladeshi Fishing Boats For Illegal Fishing In Indian Waters

Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Ships, while undertaking IMBL surveillance in the Northern Bay of Bengal, apprehended three Bangladeshi Fishing Boats (BFBs) along with 79 crew members for illegal fishing inside India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) on 15 and 16 Nov 2025.

During routine surveillance, the fishing boats were detected operating well within Indian waters, in violation of the Maritime Zones of India (Regulation of Fishing by Foreign Vessels) Act, 1981. The vessels were promptly intercepted, boarded, and thoroughly inspected by ICG boarding teams.

None of the crews possessed valid authorization or permits to fish within the Maritime Zones of India. The onboard fishing gear and freshly caught fish confirmed ongoing illegal fishing activity. Consequently, all three BFBs, along with their crew, were apprehended and safely escorted to Frazerganj. Upon arrival, the boats and their personnel were handed over to the Marine Police at Frazerganj for further legal action.

This operation underscores seamless coordination between west Bengal Police and Indian Coast Guard and the ICG’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding India’s maritime interests, deterring illegal fishing, and ensuring the safety and security of Indian fishermen operating in national waters.

The Indian Coast Guard continue to maintain an unrelenting vigil in the Bay of Bengal through continuous surface and aerial surveillance to enforce maritime laws and protect national maritime assets.

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