"BRIDGING THE GAPS BY HARNESSING THE KNOWLEDGE OF FISHERMEN IN COASTAL SECURITY: A CASE STUDY OF THE MUNAMBAM HUMAN TRAFFICKING INCIDENT IN KERALA"

Abstract

The Munambam human trafficking incident of January 2018 exposed critical gaps in India's coastal security architecture. Involving 243 Sri Lankan Tamil refugees attempting to illegally migrate to Australia or New Zealand via the western coast of Kerala, the case revealed the ease with which human traffickers exploited coastal vulnerabilities. Despite efforts by state police and central agencies, the delayed response and lack of coordinated surveillance enabled the traffickers to operate largely undetected. This case study critically examines the failures in the coordination between coastal security agencies, including the police, Indian Coast Guard, and intelligence services, focusing on their inability to prevent and promptly address the trafficking operation. Furthermore, the research highlights the underutilization of local fishing communities in the security apparatus, particularly in information gathering and surveillance. By engaging these communities, coastal intelligence could be significantly enhanced, bridging existing security gaps. The study suggests reforms to the coastal security structure, emphasizing the role of local stakeholders in fostering a more comprehensive and proactive coastal defence.