In a shocking display of disrespect for the law, a group of trawler operators launched a violent attack on a Forest Department patrol team within the Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary near Rajnagar, Kendrapara. The incident occurred when the patrol team, acting on information about illegal fishing activity within the sanctuary's prohibited zone, attempted to apprehend a trawler operating unlawfully.
Forester Suresh Chandra Pusti led the patrol team into the sanctuary after receiving a tip-off about the illegal fishing operation. Upon encountering a trawler, identified as "Chandi Tarini-3," actively engaged in fishing within the restricted area, the team moved to seize the vessel and detain its crew. However, they were threatened as a group of 8 to 10 trawlers encircled the patrol boat and issuing threats to sink it.
The situation escalated as the trawler mafia, resorted to gunfire, firing approximately 8 rounds at the Forest Department team. In the ensuing chaos, they managed to forcibly free 8 of the 9 fishermen who had been detained aboard the "Chandi Tarini-3." These fishermen, who were actively engaged in illegal fishing within the protected sanctuary, are believed to hail from Bhadrak, Baleshwar, Kendrapara, and Jagatsinghpur.
This incident reflects the growing boldness and lawlessness of the trawler mafia, who are increasingly willing to employ violence and intimidation to further their illicit activities. It also highlights the grave risks faced by those tasked with protecting the marine sanctuary and its fragile ecosystem from such destructive practices. The Forest Department personnel, despite being outnumbered and outgunned, bravely attempted to uphold the law and safeguard the sanctuary, but ultimately retreated in the face of overwhelming aggression.
It is a wake-up call, demanding immediate and decisive action to curb the unchecked activities of the trawler mafia and ensure the safety of those working to protect Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary. This is a challenge faced in conserving our natural heritage and especially for those upholding the rule of law.
