Ten Indian Fishermen From Tamil Nadu And Puducherry Arrested By Sri Lankan Navy, Mechanised Boat Seized

A group of 10 fishermen from Tamil Nadu and Puducherry was arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy late on Wednesday (8 January) for allegedly poaching in the island nation’s territorial waters. 

The fishermen had set sail from Karaikal harbour aboard a mechanised boat a couple of days ago.

According to officials from the Fisheries Department in Karaikal, the group, consisting of four fishermen from Karaikal, five from Mayiladuthurai, and one from Nagapattinam, embarked on their journey on the morning of 7 January. 

Their capture adds to the ongoing tensions surrounding maritime boundaries and fishing rights between India and Sri Lanka.

Reports indicate that the arrested fishermen, along with their boat, have been transported to Sri Lanka for further inquiry. 

Efforts are underway to verify the names of the arrested individuals.

Since 16 June 2024, the Sri Lankan Navy has reportedly arrested 425 Tamil Nadu fishermen and confiscated 58 costly mechanised boats.

Many of these fishermen remain detained in Sri Lankan jails, sparking widespread protests and calls for government intervention.

During a recent visit to Sri Lanka, the Union External Affairs Minister raised the issue with the Sri Lankan government, urging them to prevent further arrests and boat seizures. However, despite these discussions, the arrests have continued, intensifying fears within the fishing community.

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