Navy intercepts Indian fishermen trying to enter Lankan waters

The Sri Lankan Navy which is maintaining extra surveillance in the northern waters has blocked the entry of 11 Indian fishing vessels. The boats were carrying 86 persons on the  boats in the vessels when they were intercepted.

 

Special patrols are being conducted in the sea area close to the Palk Strait these days to prevent illegal immigrants from entering Sri Lankan waters after the recent detection of a family which entered the country illegally.

 

The Navy has stepped up security in the northwestern and northern waters by increasing 24-hour patrols, as there is a risk of the surge in the transmission of COVID 19 pandemic in the country due to possible illegal migration attempts via sea routes.

 

Upon informing the Indian High Commission and Indian Coast Guard, arrangements are in place to hand over the 11 Indian fishing vessels and 86 persons to Indian authorities for onward action.

 

Meanwhile, the Navy continues to increase surveillance in northwestern and northern waters to prevent illegal immigrants from entering the country by sea.