Eleven Indian fishermen arrested for poaching in Sri Lankan waters

Eleven Indian fishermen have been arrested for poaching in Sri Lankan waters, the Sri Lanka Navy said on Thursday.

The Sri Lanka Navy seized and Indian fishing boat and apprehended 11 Indian fishermen while they were poaching in Sri Lankan waters, during a special operation conducted in the northern sea area, off the Delft Island.

The Northern Naval Command spotted a group of Indian fishing boats engaging in illegal fishing, trespassing into Sri Lankan waters.

In response, the Northern Naval Command deployed its craft to drive away the Indian fishing boats from island waters, off the Delft Island, a statement by the Sri Lanka Navy said.

The compliant boarding made by naval personnel on Thursday morning resulted in the arrest of 11 Indian fishermen who continued to engage in illegal fishing in Sri Lankan waters.

The boat and Indian fishermen were brought to the Kankasanthurei Harbour.