Navy Media spokesman Captain Akram Alawi denied allegations by Indian fisherman that they were attacked by the Sri Lankan Navy while fishing in Sri Lankan waters on October 2.
“We only apprehend Indian fisherman if they cross our maritime boundaries and engage in fishing. I strongly deny this allegation as the Navy will only follow a legal procedure in such situations,” he said.
However, several Indian news sources reported that more than 2,000 Indian fishermen were forced to return without a catch after they were allegedly attacked by Sri Lankan Navy cadres.
Indian news also reported that fishing nets of fishermen, who ventured into the sea in more than 500 boats, were damaged.
A fishermen representative in Rameswaram had alleged that the Sri Lankan Navy pelted stones and iron balls at the fishermen near Katchatheevu Island.
“Though nobody was injured in the attack, several boats suffered damages, and more than 2,000 fishermen were forced to return from sea without a catch," Fishermen's Association president P. Sesuraja told reporters.
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