During a recent operation in the seas off Mullaitivu, the Navy apprehended 26 individuals engaged in illegal fishing. The operations, carried out on 13 and 14 June, led to the seizure of nine dinghies and diving gear used for illegal fishing.
The Navy routinely conducts operations in coastal areas across the island to combat illegal fishing practices. These activities pose a threat to the sustainability of the fish populations, undermine legitimate fishing industries, and harm the marine ecosystems. As part of these ongoing efforts, SLNS Lankapatuna, in the Eastern Naval Command, apprehended 11 individuals in the early hours of 13 June at Lankapatuna beach as they were returning from illegal night diving. Along with the individuals, the Navy also took into custody four dinghies and diving gear belonging to them.
Similarly, SLNS Gotabaya, also part of the Eastern Naval Command, apprehended 15 additional individuals, along with five dinghies and unauthorised fishing equipment, during a special operation in the sea area of Mullaitivu on the morning of 14 June.
These individuals were caught engaging in diving to catch fish, in violation of licensing conditions imposed to prevent illegal diving activities. They were identified as residents of Mannar, Kinniya, and China Bay, ranging in age from 24 to 56. The 11 individuals, four dinghies, and diving gear seized in Lankapatuna, were handed over to the Trincomalee Assistant Directorate of Fisheries, while the 15 individuals, along with five dinghies and fishing gear confiscated in Mullaitivu, were handed over to the Mullaitivu Assistant Directorate of Fisheries. These authorities will take appropriate legal action against the offenders.