KHULNA, July 11, 2025 (BSS) - The members of Sharankhola Range of the Eastern Sundarbans Forest Division in a drive arrested 27 fishermen with illegal fishing equipment from the Sundarbans on Thursday.

According to the forest department, a smart team of the division conducted the raid in Diporkhol and Meher Ali areas under Dublar Char in the Sundarbans and arrested the fishermen.

The team also seized a large quantity of fishing nets, three trawlers and other fishing equipment from their possession.

The detained fishermen have not collected any legal permits to enter into the forests, the sources added. 

"Currently, there is a government ban on fishing and entry into the Sundarbans from June 1 to August 31 to protect aquatic life. Anyone entering without permission during this period will face strict action according to the law," said Rana Deb, assistant conservator of forests (ACF) of Sharankhola Range. 

The arrested individuals, along with the seized trawlers and goods, have been handed over to the Alorkol Forest Patrol Outpost.

Confirming the incident, Rana Deb further said necessary action will be taken against the arrested fishermen under the Forest Act.

"The government has imposed the three-month ban through the Forest Department on all entry into the Sundarbans to protect the biodiversity of the forest," he said, adding that fishermen, honey collectors, or tourists will not be allowed to enter the forest during the period.