Kasaragod: Three trawlers from Karnataka were impounded off the Kasaragod coast for allegedly operating illegally in Kerala’s territorial waters. Fisheries officials said the crews were engaged in night trawling and fishing within 12 nautical miles of the shore, both prohibited under the Kerala Marine Fishing Regulation Act. A penalty of ₹7.5 lakh was imposed on the boat owners for the violations and for not having proper documents.

The vessels -- Malikulbahar, St Peter and Jasmine -- were intercepted on Sunday night during a joint patrol by the Fisheries Department, Marine Enforcement wing and Coastal Police near Azhithala. They were escorted to the Madakkara fishing harbour and secured for further legal steps.

The operation was led by Fisheries Extension Officer Arunendu Ramakrishnan, with officers from the Marine Enforcement Wing and coastal police stations in Trikaripur, Bekal and Kumbla, along with rescue guards and the patrolling crew.

Following adjudication, Deputy Director of Fisheries K A Labeeb issued the fines. Assistant Director Anil Kumar A G said fishing vessels flouting rules would face firm action.

Local fishermen have repeatedly accused trawlers from neighbouring Karnataka of entering Kerala waters, depleting fish stocks and threatening the livelihood of traditional fishers in Kasaragod.