Sri Lankan Navy arrests 47 Indian fishermen for ‘illegal fishing’

Sri Lankan Navy arrests 47 Indian fishermen for 'illegal fishing' by Rahul Tue, 14/10/2025 - 00:04 Body The Sri Lankan navy apprehended 47 Indian fishermen and seized five boats for ‘illegal fishing’ late Wednesday into early Thursday.  The incidents occurred in the north of Mannar and off the Delft Island as the boats trespassed into Sri Lankan waters, according to an official statement from the Sri Lankan Navy. The North Central and Northern Naval commands were deployed to drive away fishing boats and arrest and seize boats of those who continued to engage in illegal fishing activities.  Four fishing boats, along with 30 fishermen, were handed over to the fisheries inspector of Mannar, while the other boat and the remaining 17 fishermen were handed over to the inspector of Malaidi for onward legal proceedings.  According to the Sri Lankan Navy, the arrests were made during regular proactive operations against poaching. “These efforts underscore the collective robust approach steadfast commitment to safeguarding the nation’s marine ecosystems while ensuring the economic security and wellbeing of its citizens,” the Sri Lankan Navy stated. Fishing rights and maritime boundaries in the Palk Strait have been subject to long-standing tensions, including in the bilateral relations between India and Sri Lanka. Last month, 12 Indian fishermen were arrested and their boat was seized near Delft Island in Jaffna.  The Sri Lankan Navy has repeatedly attacked Indian fishermen and seized their boats for entering Sri Lankan waters. Indian fishermen, particularly from Tamil Nadu, have routinely accused Sri Lankan security forces of harassment, arrests and even fatal shootings.