Photo : BSS

DHAKA, Nov 27, 2025 (BSS) - The River Police has seized over 2.62 crore of illegal fishing nets and arrested 286 people in extensive nationwide operations over the past seven days to safeguard country's fisheries resources and ensure waterway safety. 

During the drives, officers seized 2,62,67,480 meters of illegal nets, 2,878 kg of fish, and 145kg of jellied shrimps, said a press release of the force. 

A total of 286 individuals were arrested, and 55 cases were filed under various laws, including the Fisheries Act, Reckless Driving Act, Balumahal Act, Unlawful Death Act, Narcotics Control Act, Theft Act, Special Powers Act, Kidnapping Act, Marine Fisheries Act, Gambling Act, and Murder Act. 

They also recovered 128 bottles of Indian liquor.

Six bodies were also recovered during the operation.

Additionally, 85 bulkheads were prosecuted for lacking valid documents. 

The illegal nets and jellied shrimps were destroyed, while the seized fish were distributed to orphanages.

Some 189 illegal river bushes were destroyed during the raids.