341 Indian Fishermen Detained for Poaching in 2024

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka Navy has seized a total of 46 Indian trawlers and 341 Indian fishermen for poaching in Sri Lankan waters in 2024. 

All those apprehended have been handed over to the authorities for legal proceedings.

This figure was released following the most recent apprehension in the Sea of Sri Lanka.

In a continued effort to curb illegal fishing practices, the Sri Lanka Navy conducted a special operation on August 26, 2024, leading to the seizure of an Indian trawler and the apprehension of eight Indian fishermen north of Mannar. 

This operation is part of the Navy's ongoing patrols to protect Sri Lankan waters and the livelihoods of local fishermen.

The North Central Naval Command, during its regular patrols, spotted a cluster of Indian fishing trawlers engaging in illegal activities.

In response, Inshore Patrol Craft were deployed to intercept and send away the poaching vessels. The operation successfully resulted in the capture of one trawler and eight fishermen who remained in Sri Lankan waters.

The seized trawler and the fishermen were brought to Thalaimannar, where they will be handed over to the Thalaimannar Fisheries Inspector for further legal action.