The Indian Coast Guard has seized a Pakistani fishing boat along with nine crew members after intercepting it inside Indian waters near the International Maritime Boundary Line off the Gujarat coast, officials said on Thursday. The vessel was detected during a routine patrol and is being taken to Porbandar for further investigation.
According to officials, the interception took place during a night patrol operation in the Arabian Sea on January 14, 2026. The Coast Guard ship spotted the Pakistani boat within Indian waters close to the notional maritime boundary, prompting immediate action by the patrol team.
Officials said the fishing boat, identified as Al-Madina, attempted to evade capture after being challenged by the Coast Guard and tried to flee towards Pakistani waters. Despite the attempt, the Coast Guard successfully intercepted and boarded the vessel while it was still within Indian territory.
During the boarding, nine crew members were found on board the Pakistani fishing boat. All individuals have been detained, and the vessel has been secured by the Coast Guard.
The boat is currently being towed to Porbandar, where it will undergo a detailed search. Multiple agencies are expected to jointly question the crew and conduct a thorough examination of the vessel to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incursion.
Officials noted that the area near the International Maritime Boundary Line is frequently monitored due to past incidents of cross-border fishing violations and security concerns. Such patrols are a regular part of maritime surveillance operations.
The Indian Coast Guard stated that the operation reflects its continued commitment to safeguarding India’s maritime boundaries through constant vigilance and strict enforcement of maritime laws along the country’s coastline.
