The naval said that illegal fishing poses a serious threat to marine resources and the livelihoods of local fishing communities. “These operations demonstrate our commitment to protecting the nation’s marine ecosystems while safeguarding the economic security of our citizens,” a Navy spokesperson said.
The operation was carried out as part of regular proactive patrols by the North Central and Northern Naval Commands. After spotting the Indian fishing boats trespassing into Sri Lankan waters, naval crafts were deployed to drive them away. Compliance and boarding procedures led to the seizure of four vessels and the detention of 22 fishermen who were continuing illegal fishing activities.
Following standard protocol, two fishing boats and ten fishermen apprehended near Mannar were handed over to the Fisheries Inspector of Mannar, while the remaining two vessels and 12 fishermen intercepted off Delft Island were transferred to the Fisheries Inspector of Myliddy for further legal proceedings.
