Paradip: The Indian Coast Guard on Wednesday seized two fishing boats allegedly engaged in the illegal transportation of betel nuts off the Paradip coast in Odisha, officials said.
During a routine patrol in the Bay of Bengal, Coast Guard personnel intercepted two fishing vessels and conducted a search operation. The boats, identified as Maa Ayesha-1 and Maa Ayesha-2, were found carrying 710 sacks of smuggled betel nuts.
The estimated value of the seized consignment is around ₹8.52 lakh, according to preliminary assessments.
Officials said the vessels were traced to West Bengal and were operating without valid registration or necessary documentation, indicating violations of maritime and transport regulations.
The seized boats along with their crew have been handed over to the Kasafal Marine Police Station for further investigation.
In a statement, the Coast Guard said it continues to maintain heightened vigilance in maritime zones to prevent, detect and deter illegal activities at sea.
