12. Insertion of new sections 19A, 19B and 19C in the principal enactment

The following new sections are hereby inserted immediately after section 19 and shall have effect respectively as sections 19A, 19B and 19C of the principal enactment:-

19A. Where any abandoned foreign fishing boat, along with fishing gear, fish, aquatic plants, equipment, stores, and cargo is seized, on suspicion of being involved in the commission of an offence under this Act, it shall vest absolutely in the State unless a claim is being made to the said boat within the prescribed period.

19B. (1) Where a claim is made to such abandoned foreign fishing boat, fishing gear, fish, aquatic plants, equipment, stores, and cargo by the master, owner, or charterer if any of the boat within the period prescribed, the

Magistrate upon being satisfied pursuant to an inquiry that such boat was not used for the commission of any offence under this Act shall make an order to release such boat or such items on board, or proceeds thereof, if it is sold consequent to an order made under section 13(5) of this Act to such claimant who has established his legal entitlement to such boat or any items on board before the Magistrate.

“Abandoned foreign fishing boats.

Release of abandoned foreign fishing boat pursuant to an inquiry.

Fisheries (Regulation of Foreign Fishing Boats)

“Compounding of offences.

When to consider an abandoned foreign fishing boat as a foreign fishing boat.

The claimant shall pay all expenses incurred by the State in relation to the abandoned foreign fishing boat and all such items thereon.