Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), on Monday, intercepted two Indian fishing vessels that were illegally operating inside the Maldivian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
According to MNDF, the two vessels were intercepted about 29 nautical miles north-west of Thuraakunu, Haa Alif Atoll, and taken to Uligan in the same atoll by the Coast Guard.
A total of 10 individuals were aboard one vessel while the other contained nine, MNDF said.
MNDF further revealed that they were working closely with relevant authorities to take necessary measures against the vessels.
Indian authorities recently captured two Maldivian fishing vessels that illegally crossed into the Indian EEZ. However, the vessels were later released.
Illegal narcotics were uncovered aboard various fishing vessels that were seized in Maldivian waters as of late, although it is unclear whether the Indian vessels were trafficking any drugs.
Drugs are smuggled into Maldives via sea mostly by Iranian fishing boats.
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