Two Tamil Nadu boats detained for illegal fishing in Andhra waters

Two fishing boats from Tamil Nadu were seized for allegedly fishing in Andhra Pradesh’s territorial waters near Nellore. The action was taken during a joint operation by a team of officials from the Marine Police, Fisheries and Forest Departments.

As per directions from the District Collector Himanshu Shukla, continuous sea patrolling is being conducted using two mechanised boats to curb illegal fishing activities in A.P. waters.

District Fisheries Joint Director Chand Basha said: “During a maritime patrol, two mechanised fishing boats from Tamil Nadu were detected illegally entering A.P.’s territorial waters and fishing at a location approximately 15 km off the coast of Indukurupeta mandal.”

“The joint team immediately detained the two boats, and shifted them to the Juvvaladinne Harbour, where they were handed over to the Marine Police officials for further legal action,” he added.

Officials said that strict action would continue against those engaged in illegal fishing in the sea waters of the State, and affirmed the government’s commitment to protecting fishery resources as well as the rights of local fishermen.