Navy and Coast Guard seize 04 Indian fishing boats poaching in Sri Lankan waters

During operations conducted in the dark hours of 18 Feb 26, the Sri Lanka Navy and Coast Guard seized 04 Indian fishing boats and apprehended 22 Indian fishermen, while they were poaching in Sri Lankan waters north of Mannar and off the Delft Island, Jaffna.

Recognizing the detrimental effects of poaching on marine resources and the livelihoods of local fishing communities, the Sri Lanka Navy and Coast Guard continue to conduct regular operations as proactive measures to deter such activities. These efforts underscore the collective robust approach and steadfast commitment to safeguarding the nation’s marine ecosystems while ensuring the economic security and wellbeing of its citizens.

As an extension of these operations, the North Central and Northern Naval Commands spotted a group of Indian fishing boats engaging in illegal fishing, trespassing into Sri Lankan waters. In response, both Naval Commands had deployed its naval craft to drive away those Indian fishing boats from island waters north of Mannar and off the Delft Island. Meanwhile, compliant boarding made by naval personnel resulted in the seizure of 04 Indian fishing boats and apprehension of 22 Indian fishermen who continued to engage in illegal fishing in Sri Lankan waters.

The 02 fishing boats along with the 10 fishermen held in Mannar were handed over to the Fisheries Inspector of Mannar and the remaining 02 fishing boats intercepted off the Delft Island, together with 12 Indian fishermen were handed over to the Fisheries Inspector of Myliddy for onward legal proceedings.