Navy apprehends 09 persons for engaging in illegal fishing in northern waters

The Navy nabbed 09 persons, along with 04 dinghies, unauthorized nets and fishing gear, for engaging in illegal fishing activities, during a search operation conducted in the sea area off Chalei, Jaffna on 24th April 2024. The individuals involved were caught by the Navy, whilst they were engaging in fishing with unauthorized nets and participating in light course fishing.

The Sri Lanka Navy remains vigilant and conducts operations to combat illegal fishing in its sea and coastal areas, with a view to supporting legal fishing activities.

As part of ongoing initiatives, Naval Deployment Veththalakerni, operating within the Northern Naval Command, intercepted 04 suspicious dinghies in Chalei sea area on 24th April. Following further search, naval personnel nabbed 09 persons on those dinghies, for their involvement in fishing with unauthorized nets and participating in light course fishing. The operation also led to the seizure of 04 dinghies, unauthorized nets and fishing gear.

The suspects held in these operations were identified as residents of Point Pedro, Oddusudan, Pudukudirippu, Mullaitivu and Negombo areas, who are from 16 to 56 years of age. The 09 suspects along with the seized items were handed over to the office of Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Jaffna for legal proceedings.