NEW DELHI: The Coast Guard on Monday said it had rescued seven Indian fishermen who were apprehended by a ship of the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) near the maritime boundary between the two countries.
At about 3.30 pm on Sunday, Coast Guard ship ICGS Agrim on a patrol received a distress call from an Indian fishing boat operating near the No-Fishing Zone (NFZ), an official said.
“The call reported that another Indian fishing boat, Kal Bhairav, had been intercepted by a PMSA vessel, with its seven crew members being apprehended. In response, ICGS Agrim immediately sailed to the location at maximum speed,” he said.
The Coast Guard vessel then intercepted the PMSA ship, identified as PMS Nusrat, and persuaded them to release the Indian fishermen. “The seven fishermen were all found to be in a safe medical condition. Unfortunately, the fishing boat Kal Bhairav was reported to have sunk after being damaged during the incident,” the official said.
ICGS Agrim then returned to the Okha Harbour on Monday, where a joint investigation involving the Coast Guard, state police, intelligence agencies and fisheries authorities is being undertaken to investigate the circumstances leading to the collision and the subsequent rescue operation.
“The successful effort underscores the Coast Guard’s continuing commitment to safeguarding the safety and interests of Indian fishermen at sea, showcasing its resolve in ensuring the protection of Indian maritime community,” he added.