World · Sri Lanka Bureau
Navy seizes 1,400 illegally harvested sea cucumbers in northern waters
The Sri Lanka Navy has arrested seven individuals and confiscated three fishing vessels during coordinated operations in the Northern Province that uncovered the illegal harvesting of marine resources.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
Naval personnel attached to SLNS Buwaneka, operating under the North Central Naval Command, intercepted a boat in the Yahappar area of Nachchikuda on September 16 as part of ongoing enforcement operations. The search operation resulted in the apprehension of suspects and the seizure of illegally harvested sea cucumbers.
Following the initial operation, naval forces conducted additional search missions in waters off Mannar and Jaffna districts on September 16 and 17. The combined enforcement actions led to the arrest of seven individuals suspected of involvement in illegal marine resource extraction.
The seized cargo totalled approximately 1,400 sea cucumbers, valued commodities in international markets. Three fishing vessels used in the illegal harvesting activities were also impounded by naval authorities as part of the enforcement operation.
The operations underscore ongoing efforts by the Sri Lanka Navy to combat illegal fishing and marine resource extraction in Sri Lankan waters. Sea cucumbers are protected marine species, and their unauthorized harvesting poses environmental concerns and represents a significant violation of fisheries regulations.