Nine local fishermen held for illegal fishing

At least nine local fishermen were arrested for enaging in illegal fishing activities on two separate incidents in Mannar, Navy said. Naval personnel attached in Northwestern Naval Command apprehended three local fishermen engaged in illegal fishing practices without valid permits, in the sea area of Sinnapadu yesterday.

During the arrest, a dinghy, 10 oxygen cylinders, 2 pairs of diving fins, 2 diving masks, 7 kg of sea cucumbers and 55 conch shells were also taken into naval custody. The apprehended persons and items were handed over to the Assistant Director of Fisheries, Puttalam for onward investigations.

On the same day, 6 more local fishermen who engaged in fishing activities without insurance and registration documents required for fishing, were arrested in Silawathurai Seas by naval personnel attached to SLNS Therapuththa located in Silawathurai belonging to the Northwestern Naval Command. Along with the fishermen; 3 dinghies, 3 fishing nets and 3 GPS units were also arrested by the Navy. The arrested persons and belongings were produced before the Fisheries Inspector, Mannar for further legal action.