Indian Coast Guard Intercepts Myanmar Fishermen Crossing IMBL in Tamil Nadu

The Indian Coast Guard intercepted four Myanmar fishermen who crossed the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) on Saturday. They were handed over to the Coastal Security Group and taken to Chennai for a court appearance on Sunday. The fishermen, from Akkaraipetti, were fishing 41 nautical miles off Nagapattinam on November 6 when they encountered a traditional Myanmar boat made of bamboo. The fishermen approached the boat and found four individuals communicating in sign language, who requested food. The Akkaraipettai fishers provided food and alerted the Coastal Security Group.

Upon receiving the information, the Coastal Security Group informed the Indian Coast Guard, leading to a joint operation to investigate the situation. The individuals on the Myanmar boat confirmed their nationality by showing their country flag and explained that they had drifted into Indian waters due to strong winds. The Indian team seized their boat, apprehended the four fishermen, and brought them ashore on Saturday morning. The fishermen were identified as Kyui Aung (58), Aung Tsang (23), Vin Zaw (48), and Tan Zo (45), and were arrested for crossing the IMBL.

After reaching shore, the fishermen were taken to the Coastal Security Group base in Nagapattinam for further questioning. They were then transported to Chennai to appear before the court on Sunday to face charges of crossing the IMBL. The incident highlights the collaboration between the Indian Coast Guard and Coastal Security Group in maintaining maritime security along the IMBL.

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