MNDF Intercepts Foreign Fishing Boat with Seven Crew in Maldivian Waters

The MNDF Coast Guard has taken a foreign fishing vessel with seven crew members into custody after intercepting it inside the Maldivian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), according to the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).

According to MNDF, the vessel was seized roughly 46 nautical miles northwest of Haa Alifu Thuraakunu at around 18:34 on 30 September during a special operation by Coast Guard Ship (CGS) Imaduddin.

MNDF said authorities are currently in the process of escorting the boat to Haa Dhaalu Kulhudhuffushi.

When contacted by MV+ for further details regarding the vessel’s nationality and the nature of the violation, MNDF stated that additional information would be disclosed once the vessel is handed over to relevant law enforcement authorities in due course.

The interception follows a series of similar maritime operations by the MNDF Coast Guard aimed at curbing unauthorised foreign activity in Maldivian waters. 

The Coast Guard’s recent operational focus also follows a major maritime incident involving two iron oil tankers under Maldives Customs Service custody, which broke free from their anchors at Malé Harbour during severe weather. After drifting and striking a pillar of the Sinamalé Bridge, both vessels sank 30 nautical miles outside Maldivian territorial waters, with all nine crew members rescued by the MNDF.