11 Indian fishermen arrested in SL waters for illegal fishing

Eleven Indian fishermen who engaged in illegal fishing in Sri Lankan territorial waters arrested by the Navy  in the seas off Analathivu Island yesterday.

The Navy said three trawlers belonging to the fishermen were also seized.

The fishermen were arrested during a special operation carried out by the Navy in order to prevent illegal fishing and the various smuggling attempts.

They were engaged in illegal fishing in the Sri Lankan waters when the arrest was made.

The arrested fishermen and the trawlers were escorted to SLNS Elara in Northern Naval Command.

After a medical check-up, these Indian fishers would be handed over to Assistant Director of Fisheries-Jaffna through the Department of Costal Conservation for onward legal action.

Navy said as a result of frequent patrol carried out by them for protecting the fish and marine resources belongs to Sri Lanka, illegal activities through sea routes have been reduced.