Seychelles Defence Forces Intercepts Foreign Vessel in Illegal Fishing Operation
VICTORIA, Seychelles — The Seychelles Defence Forces SDF successfully intercepted a foreign-flagged fishing vessel engaged in illegal, unreported, and unregulated IUU fishing within Seychelles waters on December 20, 2025. The operation was carried out through close coordination between the Seychelles Coast Guard SCG and the Special Operations Unit SOU, following actionable intelligence provided by the National Information Sharing and Coordination Centre NISCC.
This successful operation matters significantly to ordinary Seychellois as it protects the nation’s marine resources, which are vital for food security and economic stability. The interception demonstrates the government’s commitment to safeguarding the Blue Economy and ensuring that foreign actors cannot exploit Seychelles’ rich fishing grounds without consequences. The Exclusive Economic Zone represents a critical asset for the nation’s future prosperity.
Boarding operations confirmed that the vessel and its six crew members, all of Sri Lankan origin, were operating without authorisation to fish in Seychelles waters. Further inspections revealed deployed fishing gear and a quantity of freshly caught fish, confirming ongoing illegal activity. The crew was ordered to retrieve all fishing gear from the water before being transferred to the SCG patrol ship Zoroaster.
Seychelles has long maintained a zero-tolerance policy toward illegal fishing within its waters. The country has invested significantly in maritime surveillance and enforcement capabilities to protect its Exclusive Economic Zone, which spans approximately 1.4 million square kilometres. The coordination between multiple agencies demonstrates the sophisticated inter-agency cooperation developed over years of maritime security operations.
In line with enforcement protocols, and after completing all safety and compliance procedures, the vessel was disposed of in accordance with applicable regulations. The SDF reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to safeguarding Seychelles’ maritime sovereignty and protecting marine resources from exploitation. It continues to work closely with national, regional, and international partners to detect and combat IUU fishing within the EEZ, supporting sustainable fisheries, maritime security, and the national Blue Economy.
The successful interception sends a clear message that illegal fishing operations will not be tolerated in Seychelles waters.
📷 Image source: Seychelles Defence Forces (Coast Guard) — sdf.sc
