Accordingly, the Eastern Naval Command nabbed 04 residents of Kuchchaveli for engaging in fishing by means of explosives, during an operation conducted in the sea area of Salpeyaru on 27th October. Along with the suspects a dinghy, 02 high explosive charges consisting non electric detonators and safety fuses, diving gear and an unauthorized fishing net were also seized by the Navy.

Further, the Northwestern Naval Command apprehended 06 suspects with 300 illegally collected sea shanks, a dinghy and diving accessories, during an operation carried out in Kallaru sea area on 28th October. The accused were identified as residents of Mannar, aged from 20 to 57.

Meanwhile, all these operations were carried out in compliance with strict health and safety guidelines declared for the prevention of COVID – 19 pandemic situation. The accused held during these operations along with the fishing gear in their possession were handed over to the Kuchchaveli Police station and Mannar Fisheries Inspector for onward legal action.

Further, the Navy continues to carry out such operations to prevent damages caused to the marine ecosystem through illegal fishing practices and blast fishing.