Navy apprehends 03 persons with cache of explosives used for illegal fishing

The Navy apprehended 03 persons with a cache of explosives used for illegal fishing practices, during a search conducted in Pallawakulam area, Kuchchaveli on 19^th May 2020.

The marine ecosystem is severely damaged by explosive fishing, so that the Navy is constantly conducting operations to prevent such illegal practices. During a similar operation conducted by a group of naval personnel attached to the Eastern Naval Command on 19^th May 2020 at Pallawakulam, Kuchchaveli, two (02) motorcycles had been intercepted and this stock of explosives were found in possession of the people who were travelling on 02 motorcycles. Among the explosive items were; 24 water gel sticks, 176 non electric detonators, 24 safety fuses (each about 12 inches), and an eight-foot long safety fuse. Accordingly, the 03 suspects on the motorcycles along with the explosive items and motorcycles were taken into naval custody.

The suspects who are from 21 to 43 years of age were identified as residents of Trincomalee. The accused along with the explosives and motorcycles were handed over to the Kuchchaveli Police for onward investigation.