Indian Coast Guard evacuates sailor: UK-flagged merchant vessel sought help; part of recent string of missions

NEW DELHI: Indian Coast Guard carried out a quick medical evacuation of a 24-year-old Indian sailor from a UK-flagged merchant vessel off the Goa coast on Friday.The sailor was on board the ship MV Anglo Marie Louise when help was sought. Coast Guard ship C-427 responded and safely evacuated him. In a post on X, the Coast Guard said the operation showed its readiness to protect lives at sea and respond without delay when emergencies arise. "The prompt response underscores IGC’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives at sea through professionalism, readiness, and precision.In a separate operation on December 19, the Indian Coast Guard helped bring back four Indian fishermen from Sri Lankan custody. Coast Guard ship Rani Durgavati coordinated with Sri Lankan authorities at the International Maritime Boundary Line. The Coast Guard said the operation reflected ongoing cooperation between maritime agencies in the region and ensured the safe return of Indian nationals.On December 18, the Indian Coast Guard ship Anmol intercepted two Bangladeshi fishing boats that were found fishing illegally inside India’s Exclusive Economic Zone. The boats were later handed over to the marine police in Frazerganj for further legal action.A total of 35 crew members were detained for violating the Maritime Zones of India Act, 1981. Officials said fishing equipment was active on the boats and around 500 kilograms of fish were found, indicating fishing was taking place inside Indian waters.