Fifty (50) individuals held for involvement in illegal fishing

In separate operations conducted by the Navy from 27 Oct to 10 Nov 25, fifty (50) individuals involved in illegal fishing activities were apprehended along with 13 dinghies, 01 traditional boat and a motor bicycle (01) in multiple locations across the island.

In the coastal areas of Irakkandi, Lankapatuna, Kokilai, Bolder Point, Vakarai, Jaya Nagar, Kinniya and Jinna Puram in Trincomalee, Negombo, Galle, Balapitiya, Ambalangoda, Addalaichenai in Ampara, and Pallemunai in Mannar, these operations were conducted by the Eastern, Western, Southern, Southeastern, and North Central Naval Commands. These individuals were held for their involvement in fishing with unauthorized nets, using explosives and practicing illegal fishing methods.

The suspects, along with fishing boats and the motor bicycle held in these separate operations were handed over to the Fisheries Inspectors of Trincomalee, Negombo, Echchalampattu, Mullaitivu, Kuchchaveli, Valaichchenai East, Galle, Kinniya, Kalmunai and Manmunai for onward legal action.