Security Strengthened at Fisheries Harbours to Curb Drug Smuggling via Multiday Fishing Vessels

COLOMBO (News 1st): Authorities have decided to strengthen security at fisheries harbours to curb the smuggling of drugs into the country through multiday fishing vessels.

Deputy Minister of Fisheries Ratna Gamage stated that the Police Special Task Force or police checkpoints will be established at fisheries harbours as part of the new security measures.

He said that information on individuals aboard multiday fishing vessels will be collected at the time of departure, and inspections will also be carried out when these vessels return to the country after fishing operations.

The Deputy Minister added that several police checkpoints have already been set up at key fisheries harbours.

A discussion between security agencies and officials of the Ministry of Fisheries was held recently regarding further measures needed to prevent the smuggling of narcotics into the country using multiday fishing craft.