A coordinated operation by Sri Lankan naval and police forces resulted in 36 arrests for illegal fishing activities between mid and late July, with authorities seizing multiple vessels and equipment used in the violations.
Joint operations conducted by the Navy and Police from July 16 to 31 resulted in the apprehension of 36 individuals engaged in unlawful fishing practices across multiple coastal regions. The crackdown targeted fishing methods that breach established fisheries regulations, with particular focus on areas known for such violations.
The initial operation on July 16 in Nilaveli's Salpearu coastal area led to four arrests for fishing using winches and tractors in breach of regulations. Authorities confiscated two tractors involved in this operation. Following this, naval forces conducted extended operations from July 17 through 31 that resulted in 32 additional arrests across various coastal waters.
During the enforcement actions, authorities seized significant material used in the illegal activities, including 17 dinghies and one cab, according to the Sri Lanka Navy. The operations spanned multiple naval commands—Eastern, Northern, North Central and Northwestern—covering several coastal zones including areas in Jaffna, Mannar, Mullaitivu and Kalipitiya districts.
All suspects, vessels, vehicles, equipment and confiscated sea cucumbers were transferred to the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources offices across seven locations for legal proceedings. The coordinated approach represented an attempt to strengthen enforcement of fisheries regulations across the island's coastal areas.
