Foreign fishing boat intercepted in Maldivian waters

A foreign fishing boat operating illegally in the Maldives' Exclusive Economic Zone has been intercepted.

The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) stated that the boat was located with the assistance of MNDF Air Corps drones during an operation to monitor the Maldives' Exclusive Economic Zone. The MNDF further stated that the boat has now been taken under the custody of the Coast Guard.

The MNDF has not disclosed any further information regarding the boat. Details of the operation have also not been shared.

Boats from neighboring countries have previously been detained and fined while attempting to fish in Maldivian waters. In some cases, the boats have also been confiscated by the state.