Navy evacuates injured fisherman from Eastern Seas

The Sri Lanka Navy, in coordination with the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Colombo, evacuated an injured fisherman from a multi-day fishing trawler operating off the east coast, in the dark hours of 1 October 2026. The fisherman was subsequently transferred to Trincomalee General Hospital for further treatment.

Reportedly, the fisherman was injured in an accident while the fishing trawler ‘Dulaj Putha’ was operating about 24 nautical miles east of Sri Lanka, having left Dondra fisheries harbour for fishing on 26 September. The injury affected the fingers of his right hand and required urgent medical attention.

Following a request from the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources to MRCC Colombo, the Navy deployed Fast Attack Craft P 436, attached to the Eastern Naval Command, to assist in the evacuation.

Accordingly, the injured fisherman was transferred to the naval craft and given initial first aid before being taken to Trincomalee harbour. He was subsequently rushed to Trincomalee General Hospital for medical attention.

Meanwhile, the Navy remains ready, in coordination with MRCC Colombo, to provide prompt assistance to maritime and fishing communities in distress within Sri Lanka's maritime search and rescue region.