Indian Coast Guard Forces Pakistani Ship to Release Captured Fishermen After Two-Hour Chase

New Delhi, India - In a dramatic operation near India- Pakistan Maritime Boundary Line (MBL), Indian Coast Guard (ICG) ship Agrim successfully rescued seven Indian fishermen on November 17, 2024, after y were apprehended by a Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) ship. two-hour standoff saw ICG vessel intercept and engage Pakistani ship, ultimately persuing it to release detained Indian fishermen.

incident began when PMSA vessel detained fishing boat Kaal Bhairav and its crew in Indian waters. Responding swiftly, ICGS Agrim, a Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV) of Aesh-class, chased PMSA ship, intercepting it near MBL. Despite attempts by Pakistani vessel to retreat, ICG's determined actions ensured safe release of all seven fishermen.

fishermen were found in stable medical condition, but Kaal Bhairav was damaged during confrontation and tragically sank. ICG ship returned to Okha Harbour on November 18, 2024, with rescued crew.

Following rescue, a joint investigation was initiated at Okha Harbour involving ICG, State Police, Intelligence Agencies, and Fisheries authorities. probe aims to determine circumstances leing to collision and subsequent rescue operation. Initial reports indicate that Pakistani ship's aggressive manoeuvres may have contributed to sinking of Indian fishing boat.  

About ICGS Agrim and Aesh-Class Vessels  

successful rescue operation highlights operational prowess of ICGS Agrim, part of vanced Aesh-class of Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) designed to protect India's maritime interests. se vessels are equipped with cutting-edge technology and exceptional manoeuvrability, making m ideal for high-speed operations in contested waters:

Armed with a long-range gun and state-of--art navigation systems, ships are capable of operating continuously for seven days at sea. ir lightweight construction with extensive use of aluminium ensures superior speed and performance. Aesh-class also accounts for vanced automation and navigation systems, including ECDIS and fibre-optic gyro-compasses. Notably, ships have been specifically designed for high-speed response to maritime threats and emergencies.  

Pakistan Maritime Security Agency’s Role  

Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA), a branch of Pakistan Navy, is responsible for enforcing maritime law and protecting Pakistan’s interests in domestic and international waters. However, incidents like unauthorized detention of Indian fishermen raise concerns over its herence to international maritime norms.  

latest incident follows a series of confrontations along maritime boundary, highlighting need for constant vigilance in Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

swift action by ICGS Agrim not only ensured safety of detained fishermen but also reaffirmed India’s commitment to protecting its maritime sovereignty. As tensions in South Asia’s waters remain high, incident underscores importance of modern, capable vessels like Aesh-class in maintaining a robust maritime security posture.  

While rescue operation was a success, loss of Kaal Bhairav highlights risks faced by Indian fishermen in contested waters. joint investigation at Okha Harbour will be critical in dressing se challenges and ensuring accountability for future incidents. India's proactive maritime defence measures continue to reinforce its stance against unwarranted aggression, protecting its citizens and territorial waters with unwavering resolve.