Bangladesh Navy Detains 104 Fishermen in Mother Hilsa Ban Crackdown
In a significant crackdown on illegal fishing, the Bangladesh Navy has detained 104 fishermen for violating a 22-day ban on catching mother hilsa in the Bay of Bengal. The operation, which took place in October 2023, resulted in the seizure of six trawlers and a substantial amount of fish.
The detainees, hailing from various coastal regions including Barguna, Patharghata, Patuakhali, Rangabali, and Mahipur, were brought to Mongla's Digraj Naval Base under naval custody. Despite the ban, they ventured into the Bay of Bengal, leading to the interception of their six trawlers. Apart from mother hilsa, the trawlers also contained other marine fish species.
The operation was part of ongoing efforts to combat overfishing and protect commercially important fish like mother hilsa. Seasonal fishing bans are a common measure used to preserve fish stocks in the region, with Bangladesh, India, and occasionally Myanmar participating. However, the exact origins of the 104 fishermen remain unknown, as no specific information was available as of October 2023.
The confiscated fish, instead of being sold at auction, will be distributed among various orphanages. This move not only serves as a deterrent for future illegal fishing activities but also ensures that the seized catch benefits those in need. Meanwhile, earlier in October, the Bangladesh Navy had also seized an Indian trawler named FB Shuvo Jatra with 14 Indian fishermen on board.
