Kendrapara, Nov 7: In a major crackdown on illegal fishing activities, the Forest Department arrested 16 fishermen on Thursday for allegedly violating sanctuary rules by fishing within the prohibited turtle congregation zone of the Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary in Kendrapara district.

Forest officials confirmed that a trawler, which was being used for the illegal fishing operation, was also seized by the forest patrol teams during the raid.

The arrested fishermen, who are residents of Bhadrak and Balasore districts, were later remanded to judicial custody.

According to the Forest Department, the fishing vessel had entered the restricted zone of the sanctuary, breaching several regulations, including the provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act, the Orissa Marine Fishing Regulation Act, and marine sanctuary guidelines.

The Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary, situated along Odisha’s coastline, is recognized globally as the largest nesting ground for Olive Ridley sea turtles. To ensure the protection of these turtles during their nesting season, all fishing activities are strictly banned within the turtle congregation zone.

The Forest Department’s action underscores its commitment to safeguarding the sanctuary and ensuring the conservation of marine life in the region.