Navy apprehends 13 persons for engaging in illegal fishing
 

A group of naval personnel onboard an Inshore Patrol Craft attached to the Eastern Naval Command, during routine patrol, apprehended 13 persons for engaging in illegal fishing on 14^th July 2018.

 The suspects were held whilst they were practicing illegal fishing using unauthorized fishing nets in the sea areas north and southeast off Flag Staff, Trincomalee. Along with them, a dinghy, 2 unauthorized fishing nets (225m), 2 pairs of diving fins and 2 diving masks were also taken into naval custody. The apprehended persons, the dinghy and other items were handed over to the Assistant Directorate of Fisheries of Trincomalee for onward action.

 Sri Lanka Navy remains vigilant to prevent illegal fishing activities carried out especially using unauthorized fishing nets in island’s territorial waters and apprehensions being made in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Coast Guard and Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources.