Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture has denied statements made by Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) that the Sri Lankan vessels apprehended in the Maldives had the required permits to fish within the country’s economic borders.

Speaking to various local media outlets, a senior official of the Ministry said that no such permits were granted to any foreign vessels. The official outright denied the statement made by MNDF.

The vessel was apprehended 10 nautical miles off of Kolamaafushi island in Gaaf Alif Atoll, by local boats. The vessel was released just after 5pm on Saturday after a sweep.

MNDF said the vessel was on route to Mauritius from Sri Lanka. The agency also said while fishing equipment was found on the vessel, they were not used.