The Maldivian Coast Guard has seized a fishing vessel found illegally operating in the nation's waters on Thursday.

Upon interception, the vessel, which was in breach of Maldivian fishing regulations, was found to have six crew members aboard. Following routine inspections, the Coast Guard has transferred custody of the vessel to the police.

This incident highlights an ongoing issue, as Sri Lankan fishing vessels frequently encroach upon the Maldives' economic zone. A similar case occurred on December 26, 2024, when the Coast Guard apprehended another vessel during a surveillance operation.

The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) reported that the detection was made possible through the deployment of their Air Corps drone.