Silvester D'Souza
Daijiworld Media Network - Kundapur

Kundapur, May 17: A suspicious looking fishing boat was found on the shores of Gangolli here on Saturday May 16, sparking much curiosity among locals.

The boat named 'Sharat Star II' reportedly came from Malpe to Gangolli in connection to some repair work. It was found floating in the sea near Belikeri in Gangolli on Saturday.

The locals were surprised to see the boat which seemed to have stopped near the shore. Sources said that there were three persons in the boat, identified as Keshava from Bhatkal, who is said to have sustained minor injuries, Ramaswami from Andhra Pradesh who reportedly fled from the spot, and boat owner Sanjeeva who was unhurt.

The locals felt that if the boat had dashed against the shore, it should have capsized or broken apart, however, it seemed to have suffered no damage.

The boat reportedly left from Malpe on Friday May 15 afternoon, and suffered engine failure, and repeated efforts to restore it went in vain, sources said. Due to strong winds, the boat floated towards the shore and stopped there, said owner Sanjeeva. He further said that the wireless, GPS and other equipment of the boat had been left behind in Malpe.

When asked why he did not take the help of other boats in the sea when the engine failed, Sanjeeva did not give any clear answer. Hence, the sudden appearance of the boat has given rise to suspicions among locals.