Kinniya ferry tragedy : Navy search operations underway (Video)

November 23, 2021 at 10:30 AM

The Sri Lanka Navy has launched a search and rescue operation to find the people reported missing after a ferry had capsized in the Kuringankerni area in Kinniya, Trincomalee at around 7.30 am today. 

Issuing a statement, the Navy said it has deployed eight (08) rescue teams representing the Rapid Action Boat Squadron (RABS), Special Boat Squadron (SBS), Marines, and Divers and operations to search for the missing persons. 

The ferry had been used by residents of the area due to the construction of the existing Kurinchankerny bridge.

It had been transporting people, including school children at the time of the incident, while the authorities were notified by the area residents of the tragedy.

As of now, the bodies of 05 people, including school children have been recovered by the rescue teams, while 17 persons have been rescued and hospitalized. 

The Navy added that it is continuing the search operation in the sea area. (NewsWire)