SLNS Gajabahu brings 04 rescued fishermen from distressed fishing trawler ‘Nihathamani 01’ to Galle harbour

Sri Lanka Naval Ship (SLNS) Gajabahu on 04th September 2024 brought the 04 rescued fishermen from distressed fishing trawler ‘Nihathamani 01’ to Galle harbour. Thereupon, they were rushed to the Teaching Hospital Karapitiya for medical attention. The multi-day fishing trawler ‘Lasantha 01’ initially retrieved those 04 fishermen from the trawler ‘Nihathamani 01’, which was in distress approximately 241 nautical miles (501km) on the high seas off Galle, on 03rd September.

On 03rd September, the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DFAR) turned to the Maritime Rescue Coordination Center (MRCC) Colombo at Navy Headquarters for immediate assistance, to bring ashore those 04 fishermen rescued. In response, the Navy on the same day dispatched SLNS Gajabahu to the sea area, to bring ashore the rescued fishermen.

Accordingly, SLNS Gajabahu transferred the fishermen from the multi-day fishing trawler ‘Lasantha 01 about 158 nautical miles (292km) southwest of Galle on 04th September 2024 and brought them to the Galle harbour, while administering first aid by a dedicated medical team.

Upholding its core responsibility, the Navy remains dedicated to responding swiftly to emergencies within its Search and Rescue Region, ensuring the safety of the maritime and fishing communities.