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The Indian Coast Guard took custody of approximately 35 fishermen from Tamil Nadu. These individuals had been detained over a month ago near the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) in the Indian Ocean.
Following their trial and the imposition of a £25,000 fine, they were now handed over to the Indian Coast Guard, as stated in a defense announcement.
The fishermen had navigated to fishing grounds in the deep sea, approximately 230 nautical miles near the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT). This archipelago comprises 58 islands, spanning around 640,000 square kilometers of ocean.
The region, classified as a British Overseas Territory, is positioned approximately midway between East Africa and Indonesia. Administration of the area is conducted from London, according to the provided statement.
The fishermen were apprehended on September 29, underwent trial in BIOT, and were penalized with a fine of £25,000, as mentioned in the statement.
Due to non-payment of the fine, one boat was confiscated, whereas another boat along with its 35 crew members was released, as stated.
They were transported from Vizhinjam on the BIOT patrol vessel ‘Grampien Endurance,’ accompanied by their own fishing boat. The statement indicated that they were transferred at sea to Indian Coast Guard ships ‘Anagh’ and ‘C 441.’
The fishermen are anticipated to reach Vizhinjam at approximately 7:30 pm, where they will undergo medical examinations and be questioned by relevant agencies. Following this, they will be transferred to the Fisheries Department for a secure journey to Thengapattinam in Tamil Nadu, as outlined in the statement.
