MNDF responds to reports of two foreign fishing vessels sighted near Fiyoaree
The MNDF Southern Area Command is currently conducting an operation following reports of two foreign fishing vessels sighted 9 nautical miles west of Gdh. Fiyoaree. While the military continues to monitor the area, authorities noted that similar vessels intercepted for illegally entering Maldivian territorial waters in the past have been handed over to the police, with some previously found to be transporting illicit narcotics.
The vessel reportedly intercepted during a surveillance operation conducted by the MNDF Air Corps using drones – November 7, 2025. | MNDF
The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has launched an operation following reports of two foreign fishing vessels sighted near Gdh. Fiyoaree.
The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) announced on Thursday that the Southern Area Command has launched an operation following reports of two foreign fishing vessels sighted within the Equatorial Channel between Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll and Fuvahmulah City. The vessels were spotted approximately 9 nautical miles west of Gaafu Dhaalu Fiyoaree, traveling in a westerly direction.
Foreign fishing vessels operating within the Maldives' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) are intercepted periodically. While these seized vessels are typically handed over to the police, there have been previous instances where authorities discovered narcotics onboard such craft.
