22 fishermen arrested for breaking law, vessels seized

Kendrapara: Forest personnel today seized four seaworthy vessels and arrested 22 fishermen on charges of unlawfully gaining access into Odisha s Gahirmatha marine sanctuary, forest officials said.

Fishing activity within the marine sanctuary water territory is prohibited round the year in accordance with Wildlife Protection Act 1972, they said.

A patrolling squad nabbed them near Bababalli coast in the early hours today, said Subrat Patra, forest range officer, Gahirmatha marine sanctuary.

The fishermen, who are residents of Bhadrak and Balasore districts, were remanded to 14 days judicial custody by a court, Patra said.

The Gahirmatha marine sanctuary is a rich nesting ground for the endangered Olive Ridley sea turtles.