Navy apprehends 6 persons for engaging in illegal fishing in eastern seas

The Navy apprehended 6 persons who engaged in illegal fishing practices, during a special operation conducted off Salli, Trincomalee in the wee hours of 13th September 2023. The operation also led to the seizure of a dinghy and unauthorized fishing equipment used for the illegal act.

The Sri Lanka 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 stock. Accordingly, SLNS Vijayaba in the Eastern Naval Command mounted this search operation off Salli, Trincomalee on 13th September. The search operation resulted in the apprehension of 6 persons who were engaging in fishing with unauthorized fishing gear and seizure of a dinghy used for this unlawful practice.

The individuals held in this operation are residents of Kinniya, from 25 to 56 years of age. The 6 persons apprehended were handed over to the Fisheries Inspector in Trincomalee for onward legal proceedings. Meanwhile, the dinghy and unauthorized fishing gear have been kept in the custody of the Navy until they are handed over to authorities for onward legal action.