Navy Evacuates Injured Fisherman 75 Nautical Miles Offshore

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka Navy successfully evacuated an injured fisherman from a multiday fishing trawler off the east coast of Sri Lanka on April 26.

The fisherman was aboard the multiday fishing trawler Lakshitha 5 (IMUL‑A‑2217 TLE), which had departed from the Kudawella Fisheries Harbour with a crew of six.

While engaged in fishing activities approximately 75 nautical miles east of Sri Lanka, one crew member sustained lacerations and required immediate medical attention.

Upon receiving a request for assistance from the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Colombo immediately coordinated the rescue operation.

In response, the Sri Lanka Navy dispatched a naval craft attached to the Eastern Naval Command to the trawler’s location.

Naval personnel reached the vessel and safely transferred the injured fisherman onto the naval craft. Essential first aid was administered during the rapid return voyage to shore.

After being brought safely to the Trincomalee Harbour, the fisherman was rushed to the Trincomalee General Hospital for further medical treatment.

The Sri Lanka Navy stated that it remains in a constant state of readiness, under the coordination of MRCC Colombo, to provide life‑saving assistance to mariners and fishing communities within the Sri Lankan Search and Rescue Region, highlighting its ongoing dedication to maritime safety and humanitarian response operations.