Two illegal Indian fishermen wounded in confrontation with Navy

Sri Lanka Navy

During this operation, the Navy seized an Indian fishing boat continued to remain in Sri Lankan waters, while marshalling illegal fishing activities and collecting the fishing harvest. The operation also led to the apprehension of 13 Indian fishermen aboard the fishing boat.

The Sri Lanka Navy boarding team was compelled to conduct noncompliance boarding as the Indian fishing boat continued to maneuver aggressively, without complying with the Navy’s lawful orders and its duty, during the process of taking the boat into custody. On this occasion, the Indian fishermen have acted aggressively, maneuvering their fishing boat in a hostile manner and behaving confrontationally with the Navy. 

However, while boarding the fishing boat, in accordance with the authority vested in the Navy, the Indian fishermen, as an organized group, have attempted to assault naval personnel and made an attempt to snatch a firearm from a naval officer, endangering the lives of the naval personnel. In the process, an accidental fire has taken place, causing slight injuries to two Indian fishermen.

Following the incident, the Navy provided initial first aid to the two injured fishermen and promptly transferred them to the Jaffna Teaching Hospital for further treatment. The hospital has confirmed that their condition is stable. Meanwhile, the Navy has lodged a complaint with the Kankesanthurai Police regarding the incident.

The seized Indian fishing boat and remaining fishermen have been brought to the Kankasanthurai harbour this morning and they will be handed over to the Mailadi Fisheries Inspector for onward legal action.

Previously, there have been instances where fishermen have intruded into Sri Lankan waters and the Exclusive Economic Zone for poaching. In such cases, the Navy has apprehended them and handed them over to authorities for legal action.

With a view to prevent illegal fishing activities, the Navy conducts continuous operations aimed at securing the northern waters and protecting the livelihoods of the fishing community in the Northern Province.

Two Indian Fishermen Injured in Confrontation with Sri Lanka Navy