Twenty nine (29) persons collared for involvement in illegal fishing

In separate operations conducted by the Navy from 19 to 31 Aug 25, twenty nine (29) individuals involved in various illegal fishing activities were apprehended along with 08 dinghies and a traditional boat (01) in multiple locations across the island.

The Sri Lanka Navy carries out regular operations to curb the harmful effects of illegal fishing practices on the marine ecosystem, while also supporting the promotion of sustainable and lawful fishing activities.

These operations were conducted by the Eastern Naval Command in Valaithottam, Coconut Point, Palamunai, Jinnapuram, Foul Point Flag Staff Point, Adukkupadu, Deadsman’s Cove and Kinniya as well as the Northern Naval Command with the assistance of Police STF in the township of Jaffna. The 29 individuals were held for their involvement in fishing with unauthorized nets, explosives, light-coarse fishing and making ready unauthorized fishing nets for sale.

The suspects along with the fishing boats and unauthorized gear held in these separate operations were handed over to the offices of Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in Trincomalee, Verugal, Cod Bay, Kuchchaveli, Batticaloa and Jaffna for legal proceedings.