Navy apprehends 13 individuals for illegal harvesting of sea cucumbers

During a search operation conducted in the sea area of Walaipadu of Kilinochchi, the Sri Lanka Navy apprehended 13 individuals for conducting illegal night diving to harvest sea cucumbers on 19 Jan 26. The operation also led to the seizure of 1108 illegally harvested sea cucumbers, 04 dinghies and diving equipment.

SLNS Buwaneka belonging to the North Central Naval Command mounted this search operation, leading to the apprehension of the individuals, who were found actively engaged in the illicit activity.

The suspects held in this operation were identified as residents of Mannar, Pallimune, Thottaveli, Southbar and Eluthur ranging in age from 29 to 67 years.

The suspects along with sea cucumbers, dinghies and diving gear were handed over to the Fisheries Inspector of Kilinochchi for legal action.