The Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources has announced that 17 empty containers have fallen overboard from a merchant vessel and are currently drifting in the sea approximately 17 nautical miles west of the Port of Colombo.The incident occurred in the sea area near latitude 06°54′ North and longitude 079°32′ East.The Department said that, given the prevailing ocean currents, there is a strong possibility that the empty containers could drift towards the coast between Beruwala and Puttalam via Negombo.All multi-day and small fishing vessels operating or travelling in these sea areas have been advised to remain extremely vigilant and exercise caution.If any of the drifting containers are sighted, fishermen and other seafarers are requested to immediately inform the Radio Communication Centre of the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources or officials at the nearest fisheries harbour.