Two (2) suspects held in Illuppaikadavai over illegal transfer of sea cucumbers

The Navy apprehended two (2) suspects in Illuppaikadavai for illegal transfer of approximately 4,900 sea cucumbers without a valid licence, during a search operation conducted on 4 August 2026.

The operation was carried out by SLNS Buwaneka of the North Central Naval Command in the coastal vicinity of Anthoniyapuram, Illuppaikadavai. During the search, naval personnel inspected a suspicious craft and discovered a consignment of sea cucumbers that was being brought ashore, without a valid licence.

The suspects, aged 33 and 39, were identified as residents of Illuppaikadavai. The suspects, the seized consignment of sea cucumbers, the craft and other equipment were handed over to the Mannar Fisheries Inspector for onward legal proceedings.