MAPUSA
In a major enforcement drive against illegal fishing, the fisheries department seized six fishing vessels over the past week and booked their owners for violating fishing regulations in Goan waters.
According to department officials, four of the intercepted vessels were from Karnataka and two from Maharashtra.
All six were found operating in Goa’s territorial waters without permission and in violation of the State’s fishing laws, which restrict the entry of out-of-state trawlers and the use of banned gear.
Officials said the vessels were detained during routine patrolling operations after they were spotted fishing within the prohibited zone.
“These boats were clearly operating in violation of the law. Cases have been registered against the owners as per the relevant provisions,” a senior official from the Fisheries Department confirmed.
Following protocol, the fish catch recovered from the seized vessels was auctioned through the department, with the proceeds deposited into the government treasury.
The crackdown comes amid increasing complaints from traditional fishermen, who allege that out-of-state vessels routinely intrude into Goan waters, depleting fish stocks and threatening the livelihood of local communities.
The department has stepped up surveillance along the coast in recent weeks, with officials indicating that more surprise checks and patrolling will continue in the days ahead.
