Navy apprehended four Indian fishermen along with a fishing trawler for poaching in Sri Lankan territorial water.
During Naval patrol conducted to prevent the trespassing of Indian poachers and smuggling activities in the Sri Lankan territorial waters this apprehension was made in the seas northwest of the Delft island Subsequently, while the seized trawler escorting to Kankasanthurei it drowned due to a water leak into the hull. It is believed that the weak hull of the trawler and the rough sea state caused the drowning of the trawler.
There were previous incidents of drowning Indian trawlers which were of weak hulls, not suitable for fishing, in Sri Lankan territorial waters. Further investigation on the drowned trawler is conducted by the Navy. However the 04 Indian fishermen were brought safely to the shore and they are in the ages of 29, 33, 34 and 50.
The group of fishermen were handed over to the Assistant Director of Fisheries in Jaffna after a medical examination, for onward action.
As a result of continuous patrols conducted by the Sri Lanka Navy, the number of Indian fishing trawlers that are trespassing the Sri Lankan territorial waters has significantly reduced.
Further, the Navy will continue to utilize its resources effectively for the protection of local fishermen as well as the preservation of fish stocks in island’s territorial waters.
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