Navy apprehends 03 persons for engaging in illegal night diving in Mannar

A special search operation conducted by the Navy in Vankalai, Mannar this morning (09th November 2024) led to the apprehension of 03 suspects with 585 sea cucumbers, harvested by engaging in illegal night diving. The operation also resulted in the seizure of diving gear employed for this illegal act.

The Sri Lanka Navy carries out regular search operations and patrols in the coastal and sea areas around the island, with a view to preventing illegal fishing practices.

During a search operation in the Vankalai area, SLNS Pussadewa in the North Central Naval Command apprehended these 03 individuals for their involvement in illegal night diving and seized 585 illegally harvested sea cucumbers and diving gear.

The suspects held in this operation were identified as residents of Silawathura and Vankalai areas, aged between 24 and 36. The suspects together with sea cucumbers and diving gear were handed over to the Assistant Directorate of Fisheries, Mannar for onward legal action.