Lankan fishermen apprehended for illegal fishing

Kochi, Jan 30 (UNI) Indian Coast Guard today handed over five crew members of a Sri Lankan fishing trawler, who were apprehended for illegal fishing in Indian waters, to police here.

According to an official release, the fishing trawler, 'Sanchi Duwa', was sighted during a Coast Guard air surveillance off Lakshadweep Islands engaged in illegal fishing in Indian waters on January 28.

On receiving information, Coast Guard ship 'Kasturba Gandhi' apprehended the trawler with five crew members on board off Minicoy Island approximately 208 miles off Kochi coast, the release added.

Subsequently, the fishing trawler was brought to harbour here under escort and handed over to police authorities.

A joint interrogation was being carried out by Indian Coast Guard, Navy, Intelligence Bureau, Customs, Immigration and Fisheries Department, the release said.

UNI