The Navy apprehended 14 persons for their involvement in illegal fishing using unauthorised fishing nets, during a search operation conducted in the sea area of Round Island, Trincomalee on Sunday (14). The operation also led to the apprehension of four dinghies along with unauthorised fishing nets.
The Navy remains vigilant and conducts operations to combat illegal fishing in its sea and coastal areas, with a view to supporting legal fishing activities.
The Naval Dockyard in the Eastern Naval Command conducted a search operation in the sea area of Round Island, where the suspicious dinghies were spotted. After inspecting the dinghies, Naval personnel apprehended 14 individuals who were involved in illegal fishing using unauthorised fishing nets. Moreover, four dinghies and unauthorised fishing nets used for this illegal act were also held during this operation.
The persons held in this operation were identified as residents of Muthur, Kinniya and Wellamanal, who are from 25 to 63 years of age.
The individuals were handed over to the Fisheries Inspector of Cod Bay for onward legal action. The seized items have been kept in the Naval custody, until further legal proceedings get underway.
