Maldivian coast guard capture Sri Lankan fishing boat

Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) Coast Guard has captured a Sri Lankan fishing boat found fishing illegally in the Maldives Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

The boat was captured by Coast Guard vessel ‘FIC Hakura’ at approximately 05:25 pm Sunday.

The boat was reported by Maldivian boat ‘Asaree’, which found it 35 nautical miles to the east of K. Dhiffushi.

MNDF said the boat has been handed over to the custody of police. They did not say how many people were onboard the boat.

Police have not disclosed details regarding the case.

MNDF thanked the captain and crew of ‘Asaree’ for their assistance in locating the boat.