Navy tightens security in SL waters to prevent illegal migration attempts

In the wake of surge of COVID-19 pandemic in the country, the Sri Lanka Navy said today that it has increased the security in Sri Lankan waters to prevent illegal migrants entering the shores of Sri Lanka via sea routes.

Accordingly, the Navy has deployed more naval units to patrol the northern and northwesters waters of the island around the clock.

Navy said that steps have been taken to deploy more ships (OPV & FGBS) and Fast Attack Craft to raise surveillance in the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) as well as Inshore Patrol Craft to patrol the coastal waters of the island. Incidentally, the Eastern Naval Command has attached some of its ships and craft to the Northern Naval Command, whereas the Western Naval Command has deployed additional ships and craft to patrol the sea area extending from Chilaw to Mannar, for these special operations.

Moreover, the Navy has increased foot patrols to add weight on the security in the coastal areas and has established Coastal Observation Points in selected locations as well. Similarly, the Navy has urged the fishing community in respective areas to be vigilant regarding the possible arrival of illegal immigrants and inform relevant authorities, if any suspicious activity is observed in this regard. They have also been informed not to make contacts with foreigners engaging in smuggling activities at sea.

The Navy urged all fishing communities to refrain from having any contact with foreign fishing vessels at sea and to provide information to the Navy if they know of any such smugglers.(DSB)