(UTV | COLOMBO) – The Government has decided to release 40 of the 54 Indian fishermen who were apprehended recently by the Sri Lanka Navy for poaching close to Sri Lanka.
Accordingly, Navy Spokesperson, Captain Indika De Silva said 4 vessels that were seized have been released and the fishermen will be directed to India on board the vessels, while the remaining 14 fishermen and the vessel are expected to be released in the near future.
The decision to release the fishermen is based on the existing agreement between Sri Lanka and India pertaining to arrested fishermen.
Having considered the impact of foreign fishermen poaching in Sri Lankan waters on the local fishing community and the sustainability of fishery resources of Sri Lanka, the Navy is conducting regular patrols to curb illegal fishing activities in Sri Lankan waters, the Navy Media Unit stated.