Indian Coast Guard intercepts Iranian fishing boat amid allegations of crew exploitation

In a swift and coordinated sea-air operation, the Indian Coast Guard intercepted and detained an Iranian fishing vessel in the Arabian Sea, off the coast of Kerala.

The ship carrying six Indian crew members working on contract basis in Iran was seized after allegations of exploitation and abuse by the boat owner.

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) responded swiftly to reports of alleged misconduct, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to maritime safety and welfare.

The ship was immediately brought to Kochi, where further investigation will be conducted to ascertain the veracity of the claims and ensure appropriate measures.

The interception highlights the importance of maintaining maritime safety and the rights and welfare of crew members working in international waters.

ICG’s decisive action underlines its dedication to enforcing maritime laws and regulations to protect the well-being of seafarers.

“@IndiaCoastGuard in a swift sea-air coordinated operation intercepted and detained #Iranian fishing vessel in the #Arabian Sea west of #Kerala coast, carrying 06 #Indian crew employed on contract basis in Iran. The crew accused the boat owner of exploitation and abuse. The boat has been brought to #Kochi for further investigation. Upholding maritime safety and welfare #ICG demonstrates unwavering commitment,” said India Coast Guard in a post on Twitter.

@IndiaCoastGuard Intercepted and detained in a swift sea-air coordinated operation #Iranian in a fishing boat #arabian sea ​​to the west #Kerala 06 along the coast #Indian The crew is working in Iran on contract basis. The crew accused the boat owner of exploitation and abuse. The boat is… pic.twitter.com/4N02929W4w

– Indian Coast Guard (@IndiaCoastGuard) 6 May 2024

Authorities have not disclosed further details about the nature of the alleged abuse or the conditions on board the detained ship.

Earlier on 1 May, India Coast Guard Ship C-153 responded promptly by carrying out the medical evacuation of a 40-year-old fisherman from IFB Francis II (#Goa Registered) who sustained head injuries. Located 70 N miles south of Veraval, the operation took place at 1805 hours on 1 May. After evacuation, the ICG ship provided first aid and evacuated the fisherman safely to Veraval.

On 29 April, in back to back anti-narco operations Indian Coast Guard ship jointly with ATS Gujarat intercepted a fishing boat with 173 kg of narcotics and 2 criminals at sea. The operation followed the seizure of a Pakistani fishing boat on April 28.