09 persons held in northern waters for engaging in light-coarse fishing

A search operation conducted by the Navy led to the apprehension of 09 persons for engaging in light-coarse fishing off Chalei, Jaffna on 08th March 2024. During the operation, 05 dinghies and unauthorized fishing gear used for this illegal activity were also taken into custody.

The Navy conducts regular operations in the coastal and sea areas around the island in order to suppress illegal fishing activities performed by people. As an extension of these efforts, the Naval Deployment Veththalakerni in the Northern Naval Command conducted a search operation in the sea area of Chalei and apprehended 09 persons along with 05 dinghies and unauthorized fishing gear, for engaging in light-coarse fishing.

The apprehended individuals, who are from 19 to 45 years of age, were identified as residents of Mullaitivu, Wellanpalam and Pudumathalan areas. The accused along with the seized items were handed over to the office of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Department in Jaffna, for onward legal action.