The Sri Lanka Navy has apprehended 13 individuals engaged in illegal night diving to harvest sea cucumbers during a search operation in the Walaipadu sea area of Kilinochchi on January 19, 2026.
The operation, carried out by SLNS Buwaneka of the North Central Naval Command, led to the seizure of 1,108 illegally harvested sea cucumbers, four dinghies, and diving equipment.
The suspects were found actively engaged in the illicit activity at the time of the raid.
According to the Navy, the arrested individuals are residents of Mannar, Pallimune, Thottaveli, Southbar, and Eluthur, ranging in age from 29 to 67 years.
The suspects, along with the seized sea cucumbers, dinghies, and diving gear, have been handed over to the Fisheries Inspector of Kilinochchi for further legal action.
This operation underscores the Navy’s continued efforts to curb illegal fishing and protect Sri Lanka’s marine resources. (Newswire)