Fish fin kills fisherman in freak accident

• The victim died from an abdominal injury after falling on the fish

By Wasantha Chandrapala – Ampara 
A fisherman died in a freak accident off the eastern coast after being pierced in the abdomen by the fin of a large fish named Sappara in local jargon (Makaira Indica) he was attempting to haul onboard.  
The victim, identified as Meera Lebbe Sahabdeen from the Kenmadu area, was on a trawler when the incident occurred. According to initial reports, the fisherman lost his balance and fell onto the fish, resulting in a fatal abdominal injury caused by one of the fish’s sharp fins.  

His body was brought ashore at the Valachchenai Fishery Harbour on Sunday night by officers of the Sri Lanka Coast Guard. It was later transferred to the Valachchenai Base Hospital for a postmortem examination.  
Valachchenai Police have launched an investigation into the incident. Statements from other crew members are expected to be recorded. The inquiry is being led by Chief Inspector Lasantha Banda, Officer-in-Charge of the Valachchenai Police.