Navy nabs 18 persons for engaging in illegal fishing in northern waters

The Sri Lanka Navy apprehended 18 individuals for their involvement in illegal fishing activities, during separate operations conducted in the sea areas of Veththalakerni, Kadaikadu, Mamunei and Kudarappu in Jaffna on 06th June 2023. The operations also led to the seizure of 669 sea cucumbers, 06 dinghies as well as diving and fishing equipment used for illegal fishing.

The Navy carries out regular operations in the coastal and sea areas around the island, with a view to prevent illegal fishing practices which threaten the sustainability of fish populations, undermine legitimate fishing industries, and damage marine ecosystems.

Continuing these efforts, the Naval Deployment Veththalakerni in the Northern Naval Command conducted several search operations on 06th June in the sea areas of Veththalakerni, Kadaikadu, Mamunei and Kudarappu and nabbed 18 individuals on charges of illegal harvesting of sea cucumbers, fishing without valid passes and possession of diving equipment beyond the approved limit. The Navy also seized 669 illegally harvested sea cucumbers, 06 dinghies, diving gear and unauthorized fishing gear, during these operations.

The individuals apprehended in these operations are residents of Kalpitiya, Mulliyan and Mannar, from 18 to 42 years of age. The accused along with the stock of sea cucumber and other equipment were handed over to the office of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Department in Jaffna for onward legal action.