Indian High Commission begins efforts to secure release of 26 detained fishermen in Maldives
15 އޮކްޓޯބަރު 2026 | ބުރާސްފަތި 21:22The International Fishermen Development Trust has requested the release of 26 Indian fishermen and three vessels seized in Maldivian waters without any fines, while the Indian High Commission confirmed it is working to secure consular access and facilitate their release following the completion of necessary legal procedures.
The High Commissioner of India to the Maldives participated in a special panel discussion organized by the Maldives National University (MNU) titled "Building a Peaceful, Stable, and Prosperous Indo-Pacific." | MNU
In an email sent to the International Fishermen Development Trust (INFIDET), the Indian High Commissioner to the Maldives, G. Balasubramanian, stated that the commission is closely monitoring the situation regarding the Indian fishermen detained by Maldivian authorities. The High Commissioner further assured that efforts will be made to secure the release of the fishermen and their vessels once the established legal procedures are completed.
In a press release issued on Wednesday, Justin Antony, Founder President of INFIDET, stated that 26 fishermen from the Ramanathapuram, Thoothukudi, and Viluppuram districts were detained by Maldivian authorities on the night of October 13. The group was reportedly engaged in fishing activities across three vessels at the time of their apprehension.
Authorities in Male' have detained these fishermen on allegations of crossing international maritime boundaries, approximately 180 nautical miles outside of Maldivian territorial waters.
INFIDET has sent formal letters to the Indian High Commission in the Maldives and the relevant Indian authorities, requesting assistance in ensuring the safe repatriation of the detained fishermen without any fines and the return of their vessels.
In the statement, Justin further emphasized that all the detained fishermen are ordinary individuals whose livelihoods depend solely on fishing. Given their economic circumstances, he noted that the continued impoundment of their vessels imposes an unbearable burden. He clarified that the border crossing was unintentional, resulting from prevailing sea currents rather than a deliberate act. As these vessels are the primary means of survival for the fishermen, Justin urged the High Commission to intervene in the matter. He requested their assistance in securing the release of the fishermen and their boats without the imposition of fines or the permanent seizure of the vessels by the state.
The Indian High Commission has stated that the fishing vessels seized with drugs are expected to arrive in Male' on the afternoon of October 14. "Once the fishermen are brought to Male', we will request consular access. Upon receiving authorization, we will assess their condition and ensure their legal rights are protected," the High Commission stated in an email.
