Forty-three (43) persons apprehended for engaging in illegal fishing

In a series of search operations conducted by the Navy with the assistance of Fisheries Inspectors from 25 Mar to 07 Apr 25, forty-three (43) individuals involved in various illegal fishing activities were apprehended. The operations were conducted in Palameenmadu, Vankalai, Mandativu, Irakkandi, Ullankali, Valachchanei, Urani Lagoon, Oluthudai, Kadeikadu, Chundikulam, Nawakkadu Lagoon, Vavunativu Lagoon and coastal and beach areas of Valeipadu. The individuals were caught engaging in practices such as illegal night diving, illegal harvesting of sea cucumbers, fishing with explosives and use of unauthorized fishing nets.

Meanwhile, these operations led to the seizure of 45 unauthorized fishing nets, 5005 sea cucumbers, 13 dinghies, explosives and fishing gear.

The suspects along with fishing boats, diving and fishing gear held in these separate operations were handed over to the Mamunei, Mannar, Jaffna, Trincomalee, Valachchanei, Vavunativu and Kilinochchi Fisheries Inspectors for legal action.