145 kg of endangered marine species intercepted near North Vedalai, valued at Rs. 58 lakh
Maritime News, Mandapam, Tamil Nadu, India : In a swift and precise anti-poaching operation, the Indian Coast Guard Station Mandapam intercepted an illegal consignment of 145 kilograms of sea cucumbers, a protected marine species under Indian law. The operation took place on Sunday, April 13, following a tip-off about suspicious activity near the North Vedalai sea coast in Tamil Nadu.
Intelligence-Driven Operation Prevents Major Wildlife Crime
Acting on specific local intelligence, the Coast Guard personnel launched a rapid-response mission targeting a beaching point suspected of marine wildlife trafficking. The team successfully seized the contraband before it could be transshipped.
According to open-source estimates, the seized sea cucumbers are worth approximately ₹58 lakh in the international black market—where they are often trafficked for their use in traditional medicine and gourmet cuisine, primarily in Southeast Asia.
A Win for Marine Conservation and Coastal Vigilance
Sea cucumbers play a critical ecological role in maintaining seabed health and marine biodiversity. They are listed as protected under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and international trade is regulated under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora).
“This interception is a testament to the Indian Coast Guard’s unwavering commitment to protecting India’s marine wealth and cracking down on illegal wildlife trafficking,” a senior Coast Guard official said.
Ongoing Commitment to Environmental Security
This successful operation adds to a growing record of Indian Coast Guard initiatives targeting:
- Marine wildlife poaching
- Illegal fishing
- Environmental violations in coastal zones
The Coast Guard continues to remain on high alert along India’s extensive coastline, especially in biodiversity-sensitive areas like the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay, where illegal exploitation of marine species remains a serious concern.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening Coastal Intelligence and Community Cooperation
Authorities have praised the effective collaboration with local intelligence networks in preventing this ecological crime. The Indian Coast Guard has urged coastal communities to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities to ensure continued protection of India’s fragile marine ecosystems.
As marine conservation becomes a national and global priority, actions like this reaffirm India’s resolve to safeguard its rich maritime heritage, biodiversity, and environmental security.