Australia and Sri Lanka launch third phase of Operation Disi Rela

June 9 (Daily Mirror) - Australia and Sri Lanka have reaffirmed their steadfast commitment to combating maritime crime with the launch of the third phase of 'Operation Disi Rela', a joint maritime security initiative aimed at safeguarding regional waters from a range of evolving maritime threats. The operation was ceremonially inaugurated on 8 June 2026 at the Kingsbury Hotel in Colombo.

Operation Disi Rela 3 will be conducted from 8 to 17 June 2026 across several key locations in Sri Lanka, including Colombo, Trincomalee, Valaichchenai, Batticaloa, and Mirissa. The initiative brings together law enforcement and maritime security agencies from both countries to strengthen surveillance and operational capabilities in Sri Lankan waters.

The term 'Disi Rela', meaning “keeping a watchful eye over the maritime environment,” reflects the shared commitment of Australia and Sri Lanka to preventing illegal maritime activities. The operation builds on the success of previous editions and underscores the strong partnership between the two nations in addressing maritime security challenges.

As part of its continued support for Sri Lanka’s coastal and maritime security efforts, the Australian Government donated five high-performance All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) and twelve long-range drones to the Sri Lanka Coast Guard. These assets are expected to significantly enhance the Coast Guard’s ability to monitor coastal areas and respond effectively to illicit activities along the coastline and adjacent seas.

Through Operation Disi Rela 3, Australia and Sri Lanka remain committed to strengthening joint operational efforts, enhancing intelligence-sharing among law enforcement agencies, and fostering closer engagement with coastal communities. These collaborative measures are designed to combat transnational maritime crimes, including human trafficking, drug smuggling, and illegal fishing, while contributing to greater regional maritime security and stability.

The opening ceremony was attended by the Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Matthew Duckworth, and the Australian Defence Adviser to Sri Lanka, Colonel Amanda Johnston, along with officials from the Australian High Commission. Representing the Sri Lanka Coast Guard were Deputy Director General Commodore Prasad Jayasinghe, departmental heads, and a number of senior officers from the Tri-Forces, all of whom participated in the occasion and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening maritime cooperation between the two nations.