The Sri Lanka Navy arrested 44 individuals and seized several vessels and vehicles used in illegal fishing operations conducted across island waters between May 16 and 31.

The operations, carried out by the Eastern and Northern Naval Commands, covered the coastal and sea areas of Pachchankerni, Sober Island, Polmalkuda, Kinniya, Sudaikuda, Ottamawadi, Alampil, Puduwakattu in Trincomalee, and Chundikulam in Jaffna.

During the raids, the Navy seized eight dinghies, two canoes and four tractors allegedly used for unlawful fishing activities. Authorities also recovered a stock of sea cucumbers, commercial-grade explosives and prohibited fishing gear.

The suspects, along with the seized vessels, vehicles and equipment, were handed over to the Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Department offices in Batticaloa, Cod Bay, Muthur, Valaichchenai, Kuchchaveli, Mullaitivu and Jaffna, as well as the Pulmudai Police Station, for further legal action.

The Navy said the operations were conducted as part of ongoing efforts to protect the country’s marine resources and curb illegal fishing practices.