The Sri Lanka Navy apprehended 17 persons for engaging in illegal fishing, during separate operations conducted off Silawathura, Vankalai in Mannar, Kalmunai Point in Jaffna and beach area of Negombo on 13th December 2023. The operations also led to the apprehension of 06 dinghies, diving gear and about 743 illegally harvested sea cucumbers.
The Navy carries out regular operations in the coastal and sea areas around the island, with a view to prevent illegal fishing practices of individuals who disregard the sustainability of marine ecosystems by engaging in such practices.
As an extension of these efforts, these separate search operations were carried out by SLNS Therapuththa belonging to the Northwestern Naval Command off Silawathura, SLNS Pussadewa of North Central Naval Command off Vankalai, SLNS Welusumana in the Northern Naval Command off the Kalmunai Point and SLNS Kelani belonging to the Western Naval Command in the Negombo beach area. The operations resulted in the apprehension of 17 persons who engaged in illegal night diving and fishing without valid passes. During these operations, the Navy also held 06 dinghies, diving equipment and about 743 illegally harvested sea cucumbers.
The persons held in these operations are residents of Mannar, Vankalai, Negombo, Trincomalee and Jaffna areas, from 25 to 61 years of age. The individuals, 06 dinghies, diving equipment and sea cucumbers were handed over to the Fisheries Inspectors of Silawathura and Jaffna and Assistant Directorate of Fisheries in Negombo. (Navy)
