Navy nabs 10 suspects for illegal harvesting of sea cucumbers

During a search operation in the sea area west of Iranativu, Kilinochchi in the wee hours of 23 Feb 26, the Navy apprehended 10 persons with 1232 illegally harvested sea cucumbers, 03 dinghies and diving equipment.

The operation, mounted by SLNS Buwaneka belonging to the North Central Naval Command, resulted in the interception of 03 suspicious dinghies in the sea area west of Iranativu. The subsequent inspection led to the apprehension of those 10 individuals who had illegally harvested sea cucumbers through unauthorized night diving.

The apprehended suspects were identified as residents of Pallimunai, Mannar, aged between 29 and 54. The suspects along with sea cucumbers, dinghies and diving gear were handed over to the Fisheries Inspector of Kilinochchi for onward legal action.