Navy apprehends 12 persons for engaging in illegal fishing in eastern waters

During search operations on 02nd and 03rd December 2024, the Sri Lanka Navy apprehended 12 individuals involved in illegal fishing activities in the sea area of Nilaveli and the beach area of Punnayadi in Trincomalee. These activities included the use of unauthorized fishing nets and light coarse fishing techniques. Additionally, the operations resulted in the seizure of four (04) dinghies and one (01) traditional boat.

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.

The search operations were conducted by Eastern Naval Command’s SLNS Vijayaba in the sea area of Nilaveli and SLNS Lankapatuna in the beach area of Punnayadi. During these search operations, naval personnel searched suspicious fishing boats, leading to the apprehension of these 12 individuals for their involvement in fishing with unauthorized nets and engaging in light coarse fishing. The Navy also seized four (04) dinghies, one (01) traditional boat and fishing gear employed for these illegal acts.

The persons held in these operations were identified as residents of Nilaveli, Muthur and Erakkandi areas, who are from 17 to 51 years of age. The individuals (12) along with the seized items were handed over to the Fisheries Inspector of Verugal for onward legal action.