Navy, state agencies and fishing community join efforts to curb illegal fishing

A special programme to strengthen efforts to curb illegal fishing practices and protect the marine environment was held today, 6 October 2026, at the Naval Dockyard, Trincomalee.

The programme was chaired by Deputy Chief of Staff of the Navy and Commander Eastern Naval Area, Rear Admiral Buddhika Liyanagamage.

The programme focused on preventing illegal fishing in the eastern seas, its repercussions on tourism, promoting the use of accepted and sustainable fishing methods, and raising awareness among fishing communities about the need to protect marine resources for future generations.

Participants were also briefed on the potential consequences of failing to address illegal fishing and on the existing legal framework governing fishing activities. The concerns and issues faced by fishermen engaged in legal fishing activities were also discussed in detail.

The programme was attended by senior officers of the Eastern Naval Area, District Fisheries Directors and Fisheries Inspectors representing the Trincomalee and Mullaitivu Districts, together with representatives of local fishing associations.

Such programmes provide an important platform to strengthen inter-agency coordination and cooperation between the Sri Lanka Navy, relevant government institutions and the fishing community, particularly in relation to the protection and preservation of the marine environment. Regular engagement of this nature also promotes greater awareness, mutual understanding and collective responsibility among stakeholders, thereby enhancing collaborative efforts towards the sustainable use and protection of Sri Lanka’s marine resources.