In a display of maritime vigilance, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) intercepted a Pakistani fishing vessel operating illegally within India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. The operation resulted in the apprehension of the vessel and its 11 crew members.
The Pakistani vessel was found to be operating inside India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) without the necessary permits. This constitutes a violation of the Maritime Zones of India (Regulation of Fishing by Foreign Vessels) Act of 1981, which regulates fishing activities by foreign vessels within India's maritime zones. The Act stipulates that foreign vessels require a valid license or permit to fish in these zones and must keep their fishing gear stowed away if they enter without one. Violations of this act can lead to imprisonment, substantial fines, and the confiscation of the vessel and its catch.
Following the interception, the 11 Pakistani nationals were handed over to the Jakhau Marine Police in Gujarat for further investigation. The port of Jakhau is located in the Kutch district.
The ICG confirmed the operation via a post on X (formerly Twitter), emphasizing its commitment to protecting India's maritime frontiers and upholding international maritime law. The agency stated that such decisive actions and relentless surveillance are the bedrock of their maritime security strategy. Gujarat Defence PRO Wing Commander Abhishek Kumar Tiwari also highlighted the Coast Guard's sustained maritime operations and dedication to enforcing international laws within India's Maritime Zones.
This recent apprehension underscores the ongoing challenges of maritime security and illegal fishing activities in the region. In a similar event last year, the Coast Guard rescued seven Indian fishermen who had been detained by a Pakistan Maritime Security Agency vessel near the India-Pakistan maritime boundary. The ICG intercepted the Pakistani vessel and secured the release of the fishermen after a two-hour chase. These events highlight the complexities of maritime boundaries and the importance of maintaining constant vigilance.
