Navy apprehends 04 persons for engaging in illegal fishing in eastern waters

A special operation conducted by the Sri Lanka Navy on 09th October 2024 led to the apprehension of 04 persons who engaged in illegal fishing without valid fishing passes. During the operation, the Navy also seized one (01) dinghy as well as fishing gear used for this illegal fishing practice.

To safeguard the marine ecosystem from the negative impacts of unlawful fishing practices, the Navy is carrying out continuous operations in the coastal and sea areas surrounding the island.

As an extension of these efforts, this special operation was conducted in the sea area of Arisimale in Trincomalee, deploying small craft attached to SLNS Ranweli in the Eastern Naval Command. During the operation, naval personnel apprehended 04 persons, along with 01 dinghy and fishing gear, for their involvement in fishing without valid passes.

The persons held in this operation were residents of Kuchchaveli, from 18 to 27 years of age. The 04 individuals together with their belongings were handed over to the Fisheries Inspector of Kuchchaveli for onward legal action.