Navy apprehends 12 persons for engaging in illegal fishing in Silawathura

The Navy apprehended 12 persons who engaged in illegal fishing practices, during a special operation conducted off Kondachchikuda, Silawathura in the early hours of 29th November 2023. The operations also led to the seizure of 04 dinghies, about 1670 illegally harvested sea cucumbers as well as diving equipment.

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 the fish stock.

Accordingly, SLNS Therapuththa in the Northwestern Naval Command carried out this search operation off Kondachchikuda on 29th November and searched 04 dinghies on suspicion. The search operation led to the apprehension of 12 persons along with 1670 sea cucumbers, diving equipment and 04 dinghies, as they had engaged in night diving by illegal means.

The individuals held in this operation were residents of Kalpitiya, Silawathura, Vankalei and Mannar areas from 23 to 48 years of age. The 12 persons along with the stock of sea cucumber and seized items were handed over to the Silawathura Fisheries Inspector for onward legal action.