Navy nabs 07 suspects for illegal harvesting of sea cucumbers

During a search operation in the sea area north of Iranativu, Kilinochchi in the dark hours of 05 Feb 26, the Navy apprehended 07 persons with 355 illegally harvested sea cucumbers, 02 dinghies and diving equipment.

The operation, mounted by SLNS Buwaneka belonging to the North Central Naval Command, resulted in the interception of 02 suspicious dinghies in the sea area north of Iranativu. The subsequent inspection led to the apprehension of those seven (07) individuals who had illegally harvested sea cucumbers through unauthorized night diving.

The apprehended suspects were identified as residents of the Mannar area aged between 23 and 36. The suspects along with sea cucumbers (355), dinghies (02) and diving gears were handed over to the Fisheries Inspector of Kilinochchi for onward legal action.