July 27, Colombo (LNW): In a concerted effort to curb unlawful maritime practices, the Sri Lanka Navy has apprehended 65 individuals linked to illegal fishing activities during a series of targeted operations carried out between July 09 and 22, 2025.
The operations, spanning key coastal regions, also led to the confiscation of 16 dinghies used in unauthorised fishing ventures.
The coordinated efforts were executed under the direction of the Navy’s Eastern, North Western, and North Central Commands. Patrol teams were active in several high-risk zones including Salpearu, Uppural, Polmalkuda, Nilaveli, and Maleimunthal in the Trincomalee district, as well as Ippantivu and the northern coastal belt of Mannar.
Additionally, several individuals were intercepted whilst attempting to transport marine species such as sea cucumbers and conch shells without the necessary permits.
In the course of the operations, five illegal fishing nets were also seized alongside the impounded vessels. The suspects and confiscated equipment were subsequently handed over to various regional offices of the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, including those in Trincomalee, Echchalampattu, Puttalam, Kuchchaveli, Cod Bay, and Mannar, where legal proceedings are now underway.
