The Philippine Navy has arrested 17 Vietnamese fishermen on board three Vietnamese fishing vessels for allegedly fishing illegally inside Philippine territory.

Local media outlets reported the Navy apprehended the suspects on Thursday off the Ilocos Sur waters in the West Philippine Seam after spotting their fishing vessels using prohibited super lights to lure fish.

Meanwhile, PhilStar news agency reports that navy officials have coordinated with the Bureau of Immigration for legal actions against the 17.

It also reports the Vietnamese Embassy has been informed of the arrest.

– TiVi Tuan-san