Coast Guard Seizes 02 Indian Trawlers Poaching in Sri Lankan Waters

Sri Lanka Coast Guard Ship Suraksha conducted a special operation to chase away Indian trawlers poaching in Sri Lankan waters on 05^th of August 2024. The operation led to seizure 02 Indian trawlers and apprehend 22 Indian fishermen poaching in Sri Lankan waters off Kudiramalei Point in Kalpitiya sea area.

Sri Lanka Coast Guard and Sri Lanka Navy continue to conduct regular patrols and operations in Sri Lankan waters to curb illegal fishing practices of Indian fishing trawlers, taking into the account that impact of those practices on the livelihood of local fishermen.

As an extension of these efforts, SLCGS Suraksha had spotted a cluster of Indian trawlers engage illegal fishing in Sri Lankan waters during the patrol. In response, under the Command of Commanding officer with the directives of NorthWestern Naval Command, ship was dispatched to chase the Indian trawlers away. The operation resulted in the seizure of 02 Indian trawlers carrying approx 12676kg of fish and apprehension of 22 Indian fishermen who encroached and continuing IUU fishing in Sri Lankan waters.

Arrested trawlers and crew were taken to Kalpitiya Navy Harbour, where they were handed over to the Local Fisheries Inspectors for further legal proceedings. This operation highlights Sri Lanka Coast Guard’s dedication to safeguarding its marine resources and maintaining control over its maritime domain.