The Sri Lanka Navy has arrested a total of 497 Indian fishermen this year for violating Sri Lanka’s maritime boundaries. These arrests were made in connection with 66 fishing trawlers, which were found operating in Sri Lankan waters without the necessary permits. The ongoing issue of illegal fishing by foreign vessels, particularly from neighboring India, continues to be a source of tension between the two countries.
Navy Spokesperson Captain Gayan Wickramasuriya confirmed that the arrests have been part of the Navy’s sustained efforts to safeguard the livelihoods of local fishermen and protect Sri Lanka’s maritime resources. He emphasized that the Sri Lankan Navy is committed to ensuring the safety of its fishing community, while also working towards resolving the long-standing disputes over fishing rights in the waters off the northern and eastern coasts.
The issue of Indian fishermen illegally crossing into Sri Lankan waters has been a longstanding concern, with frequent arrests and clashes between the two sides. The Sri Lanka government has repeatedly called for better enforcement of maritime laws and a cooperative framework between both countries to address the problem. However, Indian fishermen often argue that they are unable to fish in their own waters due to overfishing and are thus forced to cross into Sri Lankan waters.
To alleviate these tensions, both nations have held discussions on a variety of measures, including possible joint patrols and fishing agreements. However, these solutions have yet to result in a long-term resolution, and the Sri Lanka Navy’s efforts to protect local fishing zones continue. The authorities are calling for enhanced collaboration to find a sustainable and fair solution for all stakeholders involved.
