The Andaman and Nicobar Police successfully concluded the anti-poaching operation “Operation Coral Shield” along the western coast of the North Andaman Islands, resulting in the apprehension of all 10 Myanmarese poachers involved in illegal collection of sea cucumbers. The final poacher surrendered on December 24, 2025, at LOP Burmanallah, following nearly a month of sustained surveillance and operational pressure, with assistance from villagers of Pan Nallah.
The operation, which began on December 1, 2025, was launched after credible inputs were received from local fishermen regarding the presence of illegal poachers in the area. Authorities reported the seizure of one engine dinghy and approximately 800 kilograms of sea cucumbers during the final phase of the operation. This brings the cumulative seizures for the year to 47 Myanmarese poachers, six engine dinghies, and around 1,500 kilograms of sea cucumbers.
The anti-poaching effort covered roughly 200 square kilometers of dense jungle and coastal terrain. Personnel from multiple police units, including PS Kalighat, OP Kishorinagar, PS Mayabunder, and PS Diglipur, coordinated closely with the Indian Reserve Battalion (IRBn), Police Marine Force (PMF), Home Guard volunteers, and local fishermen to monitor and restrict poaching activities. Villagers from Coffee Dera, Pan Nallah, and surrounding areas provided crucial local intelligence that helped track and apprehend the suspects.
Officials stated that the operation aimed to protect the islands’ marine and forest biodiversity, prevent illegal trespassing, and maintain environmental security in ecologically sensitive regions. The coordinated enforcement efforts reflected a systematic approach to curbing poaching and ensuring compliance with wildlife protection laws.
Authorities have urged the public to share any credible information related to illegal activities, including poaching, with the nearest police station or through dedicated contact numbers 112 and 03192-273344. Informers will have their identities kept confidential and may be eligible for suitable rewards, officials added.
The completion of “Operation Coral Shield” marks a significant step in addressing illegal poaching along the North Andaman coast. The operation also highlights ongoing efforts to monitor vulnerable coastal and forest ecosystems and to deter future illegal activities that threaten the islands’ natural resources.
With this latest success, officials have reiterated that continued vigilance, timely reporting by local communities, and coordinated enforcement are essential to protecting the biodiversity of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Authorities continue to maintain surveillance in the region to prevent recurrence of poaching activities.
