The Sri Lanka Navy has arrested 44 individuals involved in illegal fishing activities during operations conducted between May 16 and May 31.
The Navy said the suspects were apprehended during a series of operations carried out by the Eastern and Northern Naval Commands in coastal and sea areas including Panichchankerni, Soba Island, Polmalkuda, Kinniya, Soodaikuda, Ottamavadi, Alampil, Pudukkudiyiruppu and Chundikulam.
Authorities also seized eight dinghies, two canoes and seven tractors used in the illegal operations.
The suspects were found engaging in fishing activities using prohibited methods and equipment. Navy personnel also seized sea cucumbers, commercial explosives and banned fishing gear during the operations.
The arrested individuals, along with the seized vessels, vehicles and equipment, were handed over to the Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Department offices in Batticaloa, Cod Bay, Muthur, Valaichchenai, Kuchchaveli, Mullaitivu and Jaffna, as well as the Pulmoddai Police Station for further legal action. (Newswire)
