In the latest episode of an ongoing issue, the Sri Lankan Navy has arrested six Indian fishermen and seized their trawlers on charges of poaching in Sri Lankan waters. This incident, the fourth of its kind this month, occurred north of the Delft Island, Jaffna, as reported in an official statement.
The Sri Lanka Navy’s press release stated that the arrested fishermen and their two trawlers were apprehended on Monday. Following the arrest, the six fishermen were escorted to the Kankasanthurai Harbour and are slated to be handed over to the Mailadi Fisheries Inspector for further legal action.
This comes on the heels of a similar incident last week, where 18 Indian fishermen were arrested, and their two trawlers were seized for allegedly engaging in poaching activities in Sri Lankan waters.
The issue of fishermen crossing maritime boundaries has long been a contentious one in the bilateral relationship between India and Sri Lanka. Tensions have escalated to the point where Sri Lankan Navy personnel have resorted to firing at Indian fishermen in the Palk Strait and seizing their boats.
The Palk Strait, a narrow stretch of water that separates Tamil Nadu from Sri Lanka, is known for being a rich fishing ground for fishermen from both countries. However, the frequent clashes over territorial boundaries and alleged poaching have strained diplomatic ties between the two nations