Indian Fishermen Injured in Confrontation with Sri Lanka Navy

COLOMBO (News 1st): The Northern Naval Command of the Sri Lanka Navy seized an Indian fishing boat and apprehended 13 Indian fishermen for poaching in Sri Lankan waters off Valvettithurai, Jaffna, on the night of January 27, 2025. 

The operation was launched around 2200 hrs after the Northern Naval Command observed a cluster of Indian fishing boats in the area.

During the operation, the Navy deployed naval craft to drive away the fishing boats. 

One Indian fishing boat, which continued to remain in Sri Lankan waters and engage in illegal fishing activities, was seized. The Sri Lanka Navy boarding team had to conduct a noncompliance boarding as the Indian fishing boat maneuvered aggressively and did not comply with lawful orders.

The Indian fishermen acted confrontationally, attempting to assault naval personnel and snatch a firearm from a naval officer, endangering the lives of the naval team. 

In the process, an accidental fire had occurred, causing slight injuries to two Indian fishermen. 

The Navy provided initial first aid and transferred the injured fishermen to the Jaffna Teaching Hospital, where their condition is reported to be stable. A complaint has been lodged with the Kankesanthurai Police regarding the incident.

The seized Indian fishing boat and the remaining fishermen were brought to the Kankasanthurai harbour and will be handed over to the Mailadi Fisheries Inspector for legal action. 

The Navy continues to conduct operations to prevent illegal fishing activities and protect the livelihoods of the fishing community in the Northern Province.