Investigation ordered over SLN & fishermen clash off Trinco

According to official sources, the Navy was conducting a routine operation when they encountered 11 fishing vessels allegedly involved in illegal poaching. During the operation, a group of fishermen reportedly surrounded a Navy vessel and attempted to flee the scene.

A scuffle broke out between the fishermen and the naval personnel as the situation escalated. Navy officers reportedly attempted to defuse the confrontation peacefully. However, the incident took a dangerous turn when individuals from the group allegedly tried to seize the firearms of Navy personnel.

In an effort to control the increasingly volatile situation, Navy officers fired warning shots into the air. Amid the chaos, a firearm belonging to one of the officers accidentally discharged, injuring a 23-year-old fisherman.

The injured individual was immediately transported to the Trincomalee District General Hospital and is currently receiving medical treatment. His condition is reportedly stable.