The Sri Lankan Navy has detained 22 Indian fishermen from the Pamban area in Ramanathapuram, aboard two country boats, for reportedly violating the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL). The apprehended individuals and their boats are now subject to further legal proceedings. Notably, the fishermen had set out to sea on Saturday after several days, prompted by a cyclone warning.
On November 15, the country boat fishermen embarked on a fishing expedition into the sea. While operating near the IMBL, a group of Indian boats was reportedly chased away by the Sri Lankan navy. Allegedly, two of the boats continued fishing in Sri Lankan waters, leading to their apprehension by the Northern Naval Command. The two trawlers, carrying a total of 22 fishermen, were accused of poaching in Lankan waters off Point Pedro. Following the arrest, the boats were impounded, and the fishermen were transported to Jaffna port. Subsequently, they were handed over to the fisheries department for further proceedings.
Official sources indicate that the number of Indian fishermen detained by Sri Lanka this year has now reached 196. In response, fishermen’s associations have urged the Indian government to take action for the release of these individuals. According to a statement from the Sri Lankan navy, the apprehended fishermen were brought to the Kankasanthurei Harbour and are slated to be handed over to the Fisheries Inspector of Mailadi.
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