No illegal items found on two foreign fishing vessels discovered near Fiyoaree: MNDF
Following a report from a local fishing vessel, the Coast Guard and Police conducted a joint operation to intercept and inspect two foreign fishing boats traveling west of Fiyoaree; however, the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) confirmed that no illegal items or activities were discovered on board. The MNDF further noted that the vessels were navigating through a standard international maritime route frequently used by ships transiting through Maldivian territorial waters.
A foreign vessel has been intercepted near GDh. Fiyoaree. The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has conducted a search and inspection of the boat. | MNDF
The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has stated that no illegal items or activities were discovered aboard the two foreign fishing vessels recently intercepted near GDh. Fiyoaree.
The MNDF Southern Area Command launched an operation on Thursday morning following reports of two foreign fishing vessels traveling from east to west through the Equatorial Channel. The vessels were sighted approximately 9 nautical miles west of Gaafu Dhaalu Fiyoaree, in the waters between Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll and Fuvahmulah.
Regarding the operation, the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) stated that the Coast Guard Fourth Squadron of the MNDF Southern Area Command has intercepted and inspected two foreign fishing vessels traveling within the Maldives' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
The MNDF stated that following a report from a local fishing vessel in the area, they intercepted and inspected the vessels in collaboration with the Maldives Police Service. However, the search revealed no illegal items or activities in violation of the law.
The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) stated that this channel is a route commonly utilized by international vessels transiting through Maldivian waters.
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, authorities have previously discovered narcotics aboard such boats.
