Navy nabs 07 persons for engaging in illegal fishing in eastern waters

The Sri Lanka Navy apprehended 07 persons for their involvement in illegal fishing using unauthorized fishing gear, during a search operation conducted in Rathugala sea area, Trincomalee in the dark hours of 04th April 2024. A dinghy (01) and unauthorized fishing equipment used for this illegal act were also taken into the naval custody, during this operation.

The Sri Lanka Navy remains vigilant and conducting operations to combat illegal fishing in its sea and coastal areas while also supporting legal fishing activities.

The operation was mounted by a team of personnel from the Special Boat Squadron and Rapid Action Boat Squadron attached to Naval Detachment Alasgarden of SLNS Vijayaba in the Eastern Naval Command. During this operation, naval personnel intercepted a suspicious dinghy in Rathugala sea area and apprehended 07 persons aboard for their involvement in illegal fishing using unauthorized fishing gear. The operation also resulted in the seizure of the dinghy and unauthorized fishing equipment used by those individuals.

The persons held in this operation are residents of Erakkandi, Trincomalee, who are from 23 to 29 years of age. The individuals along with the seized items were handed over to the Fisheries Inspector of Trincomalee for onward legal action.