Sri Vijaya Puram, Aug 9: In a proactive operation to maintain the security of national waters and safeguard coastal integrity, the Andaman & Nicobar Command (ANC) intercepted and apprehended an unauthorised boat near Diglipur. The operation underscores ANC’s continued vigilance and resolve to maintain maritime security and protect the marine ecosystem of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
Based on specific and actionable intelligence regarding the presence of an unauthorised boat suspected to be involved in poaching activities, ANC swiftly launched a coordinated operation in the Diglipur area. Army and Naval Components of ANC deployed personnel and assets to conduct a systematic search of the area, including an aerial search by a Naval helicopter, in close coordination with the Indian Coast Guard and Andaman & Nicobar Police. On being sighted, the occupants abandoned the boat and fled into the nearby forest.
The coordinated search operation by the Army and Naval Components of ANC, along with the Andaman & Nicobar Police, resulted in the apprehension of three poachers. The presence of additional poachers in the area is suspected, and joint search operations remain underway to locate and apprehend them.
Diving gear was recovered from the apprehended boat, which is being handed over to the local police as per procedures. The boat and recovered equipment are being processed as part of the ongoing investigation.
The successful operation demonstrates the effectiveness of proactive, intelligence-led action and close inter-agency coordination. ANC remains committed to maintaining a high state of vigilance and safeguarding national waters, coastal areas and the rich marine biodiversity of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands through sustained surveillance, swift response and jointness.