KRABI, 17 August 2015, Thailand Maritime Enforcement Coordination Center Area 3 arrested a trawler fishing illegally in the protected waters of Krabi province.
The arrest was made during a patrol over Ko Phraya Nak, Ko Bida and Ko Yao Yai islands. The patrol was organized by the center, coordinating a patrol vessel and special task force from the provincial Marine Department. The patrol was tipped off by locals about illegal activity in protected waters, which extend over 3,000 sq m.
Officials reported that not long after the patrol started, a trawler was seen fishing in the area using equipment banned by the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives. Authorities arrested the captain and his five crew members, seized the trawler, illegal tools and 200 kg of captured marine animals.
The violators were charged with fishing in a restricted area without permission and await further legal proceedings.
