Mangaluru: A 12 tonne boat (interceptor) belonging to the Coastal Security Police (CSP) gutted in fire at the breakwater near Tannirubhavi in the city on Thursday. 

Y. Ganga Reddy, CSP police inspector told newskarnataka.com that the boat (KWR 035) was parked after patrolling from 8am to 1pm. All of a sudden, fire appeared in the boat at 4pm. Although, we tried to douse the fire, 80% of the boat is damaged, he said. 

The boat, which was brought in 2010, costs Rs 2.45 crore, he said. 

When the fire appeared in the boat, there was no one in the boat, Mr. Reddy said. Short circuit must be the reason for it, he added.

In total, the Mangaluru Coastal Security Police had three interceptors, which has the responsibility of surveillance of coast from Thalappady to Hosabettu. Suspicious movement of boats or vessels is being monitored round the clock by the cops to prevent terrorist and other anti-national activities.

Mangaluru CSP is now left with one five tone and one 12 tonne boat, Mr. Reddy said.

Fire extinguishers, NMPT fire squad arrived at the spot to douse the fire. A case has been registered in Panambur police station.