Navy nabs 65 individuals over illegal fishing practices

The Sri Lanka Navy apprehended 65 individuals during a series of search operations against illegal fishing activities across island waters between 1 and 11 September 2026.

Among them, 63 persons were held for using banned fishing nets, illegal fishing methods, winches, and tractors. Further, a joint operation with the Sri Lanka Police in Kattankudy town, led to the arrest of 2 persons along with 44 banned fishing nets.

Operations conducted by the Eastern, Northern, and Southeastern Naval Commands also made way for the seizure of 26 dinghies, 2 tractors, and 1 cab. The raids covered coastal and sea areas including Jamaliya, Foul Point, Ilankanthai, Pigeon Island, Nadithivu Island, Alles Garden, Nilaveli, Kaddaikadu, Vettalakeni, Chundikulam, and Arugam Bay.

The suspects, dinghies, vehicles, and illegal fishing gear were handed over to the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources offices in Cod Bay, Kinniya, Mutur, Trincomalee, Batticaloa, Jaffna, and Pottuvil for legal proceedings.