In a recent development, the Sri Lankan Navy has detained 23 Indian fishermen and confiscated two trawlers for allegedly engaging in poaching activities within Sri Lankan waters. The incident occurred north of Delft Island, Jaffna, as reported by an official statement released in Colombo.
According to the Sri Lanka Navy, the apprehended fishermen and seized trawlers were escorted to the Kankesanthurai Harbour for further legal action, under the supervision of the Mayiladi Fisheries Inspector.
This incident marks another chapter in the ongoing efforts by Sri Lanka to curb illegal fishing practices by foreign vessels, which significantly impact the livelihoods of local fishermen. The Sri Lankan Navy has been conducting regular patrols and operations to deter such activities, particularly in the northern waters off Delft Island.
In response to the detentions, Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai has urged External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to intervene and secure the immediate repatriation of the detained fishermen. He emphasized the need to ensure their safety during this period.
This latest incident adds to the contentious issue of fishing rights between India and Sri Lanka, with previous incidents involving arrests and seizures of Indian fishermen and their boats. The Palk Strait, a vital fishing ground shared by both nations, has often been the focal point of such disputes.
The tensions over fishing rights have led to periodic instances of arrests, with dozens of Indian fishermen detained by Sri Lankan authorities in recent years. In January 2024 alone, 36 Indian fishermen were apprehended, adding to the 240 arrests made in 2023.
