A tense confrontation unfolded yesterday (03) in the Kuchchaveli sea area of Trincomalee, when the Sri Lanka Navy attempted to apprehend 11 vessels engaged in illegal fishing activities. During the operation, an organized group confronted the Navy, surrounding one of their patrol vessels and attempting to seize one of the detained boats.
What began as a standard maritime enforcement action quickly escalated into a physical altercation. According to Navy sources, the situation became volatile when the group allegedly tried to disarm naval personnel and hijack the vessel. In an effort to regain control, Navy officers resorted to firing warning shots into the air.
Amid the chaos, a Navy firearm discharged and a 23-year-old man was injured. He has since been admitted to the Trincomalee General Hospital and is currently receiving treatment.
The Navy has launched a formal investigation into the incident, while heightened tensions continue in the area. In the aftermath, local fishermen have staged a protest in Kuchchaveli, demanding accountability and raising concerns about the Navy’s conduct.
Authorities are urging calm as inquiries continue into the circumstances surrounding the confrontation.
