13 Bangladeshi Fishermen Detained Off Andhra Coast After 20-Day Drift
Police say the vessel entered India’s EEZ without permission, prompting action under the Maritime Zones of India Act.
Overview
- Local fishermen spotted the drifting boat off Srikakulam and alerted marine police, who used three vessels to bring it ashore at Musavanipeta.
- The 13 men, identified by police as natives of Bhola district in Bangladesh, reported leaving Dhaka on November 10 when their engine failed.
- They said they exhausted a week’s rations and survived mainly on water, and were given food and medical attention after landing.
- Authorities confirmed the boat’s entry into India’s Exclusive Economic Zone and said a case will be registered under the 1981 Act.
- Bangladeshi officials have been notified, and the men remain in custody at Kalingapatnam as questioning and formal procedures continue.