SEABROOK, N.H. -- Security forces at the Seabrook Nuclear Power Plant took four armed men into custody this morning for violating the security zone, though authorities say the men apparently were duck hunters.

The men entered the plant property by boat so the Coast Guard was notified when they were spotted.

The plant's security notified local police of the violation of the plant's security zone at 9:30 a.m. and the Coast Guard launched a 25-foot small defense boat from Portsmouth Harbor and a 47-foot life boat from Merrimack Station, the Coast Guard said.

When first challenged by security, the men started to run away but were quickly apprehended, Coast Guard Chief Chris Wheeler said.

Wheeler said the security zone is clearly marked but the agency has to make sure all the markers are in place before deciding what action to take against the hunters.

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