An Omani fishing vessel was discovered near St. Mary’s Island in Malpe, carrying three fishermen from Tamil Nadu. These men had fled Oman after allegedly enduring severe abuse and exploitation.
Reports indicate that the fishermen, who were employed on the Omani boat, faced harsh conditions, including the withholding of wages and food.
According to the Coast Guard, the fishermen escaped from the Omani port, fearing for their safety after their passports were reportedly seized by the boat owner, who also subjected them to torture.
The fishermen are said to have journeyed over 4,000 kilometers by sea to reach the Indian coastline. The foreign boat, en route to Malpe via Karwar, ran out of fuel, leaving the men stranded without food or money. Local fishermen near St. Mary’s Island noticed the vessel and promptly notified the Coast Guard.
The Coast Guard seized the vessel and apprehended the fishermen. A legal case has been filed against them for crossing the border aboard a foreign ship without the necessary documents.
The arrested individuals have been identified as James Franklin Moses, Robinston, and Derose Alphonso, all hailing from Tamil Nadu.
Read also: