Suspect with commercial explosives arrested in Trincomalee

The Sri Lanka Navy and Police Special Task Force (STF) arrested a person with 45 Water Gel sticks – a type of commercial explosive, during a search operation carried out in Erakkandi, Trincomalee on 12th June 2023. The arrest was made while the suspect was carrying the explosive items for sale.

The use of explosives for fishing poses a serious threat to marine life and can cause long-lasting damage to the marine ecosystems. Thus, the Sri Lanka Navy has been conducting regular operations to crack down on explosive fishing and other illegal fishing practices in the island waters.

The special operation was conducted by SLNS Vijayaba in the Eastern Naval Command and Sardhapura Police STF in Erakkandi area in the dark hours of 12th June. During the operation, the naval and STF personnel interrogated a suspicious person on the road and arrested him for carrying 45 Water Gel sticks for sale by illegal means.

The suspect held in this search operation was identified as a resident of Erakkandi area, aged 45. The accused along with 45 Water Gel sticks was handed over to the Kuchchaveli Police for onward legal action.