Navy seizes 06 Indian fishing trawlers whilst poaching in Sri Lankan waters

A special operation conducted by the Navy in seas Southeast of the Delft Island, Jaffna on the night of 18th December 2021, led to seizure of 06 Indian fishing trawlers poaching in Sri Lankan waters, with 43 Indian fishermen aboard.

Taking into account the impact of foreign fishermen poaching in Sri Lankan waters on the livelihood of local fishing community and the sustainability of fishery resources of Sri Lanka, the Navy is conducting regular patrols to curb illegal fishing activities in island waters.

In this special operation, Fast Attack Craft of the 04th Fast Attack Craft Flotilla (4 FAF) attached to the Northern Naval Command took hold of these 06 Indian fishing trawlers along with 43 Indian fishermen aboard, for poaching in Sri Lankan waters Southeast of the Delft Island.

The operation was carried out adhering to the COVID-19 protocols. Further, arrangements are being made to hand them over to relevant authorities for onward legal action after Rapid Antigen Tests for apprehended Indian fishermen.

Further, Sri Lanka Navy will continue to patrol Sri Lankan waters around the clock, to prevent illegal fishing practices and other illegal acts by foreign fishermen, with a view to protect the fishery resources of the country and secure the livelihood of local fishermen.