Jazan police recently released 61 Egyptian fishermen who were arrested for entering Saudi waters illegally.

The Border Guard's marine patrols had arrested the fishermen after they entered Saudi territorial waters near Fursan Island without prior permission. They were on board two fishing boats “Ashoor” and “Honored Kaaba.”

Jazan Gov. Prince Mohammad bin Nasir supervised the arrests.

Ali bin Mousa Naalah, spokesman for the governorate, said Saudi security agents dealt with the fishermen in a compassionate way because of the Kingdom's friendly relations with Egypt. The men were released after they promised to keep away from Saudi territorial waters in future.

Naalah said all fishing trips are governed by international laws and agreements. Breaking these laws can lead to imprisonment, financial penalties and confiscation of boats and equipment.