Authorities seized and destroyed around 40,000 meters of illegal current nets during a joint operation at Shamlapur and Holbonia fish landing stations in the coastal Baharchhara union of Teknaf.

The operation was conducted on Friday (May 15) from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM in different coastal fish landing areas. The seized illegal nets were later burned publicly.

According to the Department of Fisheries, the government has imposed a 58-day ban on all types of fishing in the sea from April 15 to June 11 to ensure proper breeding, production, and conservation of marine fish resources. Awareness campaigns were also conducted among fishermen during the drive.

The information was confirmed by Teknaf Upazila Senior Fisheries Officer Md. Obaidul Haque.

Among those present during the operation were Chattogram Divisional Fisheries Director Md. Anwar Hossain, Cox’s Bazar District Fisheries Officer Md. Nazmul Huda, Teknaf Senior Fisheries Officer Md. Obaidul Haque, and Baharchhara Coast Guard Contingent Commander Md. Mehedi Hasan.

“Fishermen have been instructed to refrain from fishing in the sea during the government-imposed restriction period. Legal action will be taken against anyone violating the ban.”

He also said that violators may face imprisonment and fines, adding that such operations will continue to protect marine resources.