Swift Navy response saves critically ill fisherman at sea

In a swift and coordinated operation, the Sri Lanka Navy successfully evacuated a critically ill fisherman from a local fishing trawler approximately 95 nautical miles (152 km) south of Galle and rushed him for medical attention, upon being brought ashore this morning (05 Sep 25).

The emergency unfolded aboard the multi-day fishing trawler, which had departed from Galle Fisheries Harbour on 31 August with a crew of six. While engaging in fishing at sea, one of the fishermen aboard fell severely ill, requiring immediate medical attention. Meanwhile, the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Colombo at the Naval Headquarters was alerted by the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, to bring the ill fisherman ashore, with the assistance of the Navy.

Responding swiftly, the Navy deployed a craft from the Southern Naval Command to the location. On the evening of 04 September, naval personnel reached the fishing trawler and retrieved the ill fisherman. Subsequently, initial first aid was administered to stabilize the patient and facilitated his transfer. Having brought him to Galle Harbour, the patient was transferred to the Karapitiya Teaching Hospital for further treatment.

This life-saving mission underscores the Sri Lanka Navy's unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives at sea. Coordinating with the MRCC Colombo, the Navy remains on constant standby to provide assistance to the maritime and fishing communities in distress within Sri Lanka's Search and Rescue Region.