Twelve Indian fishermen, including five from Tamil Nadu, were captured by the Sri Lankan Navy on April 11 for reportedly crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line. The fishermen set out from Karaikal fishing harbor on April 10 and were caught in Sri Lankan waters off Kovilam in Karainagar, Jaffna.
The Sri Lankan Navy confiscated the Indian fishing boat during a late-night operation and detained the 12 fishermen for alleged poaching activities. The detained individuals hail from various districts, including Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, and Karaikal. This incident is part of a series of arrests made by the Sri Lankan Navy due to illegal fishing activities.
In a separate incident on April 8, 10 Indian fishermen were also apprehended for illegal fishing in waters north of Mannar. Sri Lankan authorities have seized 16 Indian fishing trawlers and arrested 112 Indian fishermen this year alone for alleged poaching. These detentions have raised concerns among fishing communities in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, impacting their livelihoods.
Fishermen often cross the IMBL due to depleting fish stocks on the Indian side and unclear sea boundaries. While Sri Lanka enforces strict measures against illegal fishing, calls have been made for diplomatic interventions to secure the release of detained fishermen and their boats. Fishermen’s associations advocate for a lasting bilateral solution to prevent future arrests and safeguard the welfare of coastal fishing communities.
