Human trafficking: Sri Lankan trawler in Reunion Islands

COLOMBO (News 1st) - A Sri Lankan multi day trawler carrying 70 people had traveled to the French colony of Reunion islands. The police launched an investigation after owner lodged a complaint with the Negombo police. He claimed that the trawler that had set sail from the Negombo Fisheries Harbour on the 9th of this month, had disappeared. It has been revealed that the helmsman or the captain of the boat engaged in human trafficking charging between Rs. 100,000 to R1,000,000.00 per person. News 1st made inquiries from Anura Jayasekera, Assistant Director in charge of the Fisheries Department Chilaw district. He said that the trawler was used for human trafficking and that the necessary authorities in the Reunion Islands have been notified.