Section 40. Proceedings on forfeiture of vessel.

Where any vessel has either wholly or as to any share therein become subject to forfeiture under this Part, any commissioned officer of the Indian Navy or Indian Coast Guard or an Indian ambassador or any other officer authorised by the Central Government, may seize and detain the vessel, under the directions of the proper officer and bring her for adjudication before the High Court and the High Court may thereupon adjudge the vessel with her equipment to be forfeited to the Government and make such order in the case as the High Court seems just and may award to the officer bringing in the vessel for adjudication such portion of the proceeds of the sale of the vessel or any share therein as the High Court thinks fit.