A person apprehended in Trincomalee for possession of commercial explosives

A coordinated operation conducted by the Sri Lanka Navy and Police Special Task Force (STF) in the China Bay area of Trincomalee in the dark hours of 06th June 2023 led to the apprehension of a suspect who was carrying 95 gelignite sticks - a type of commercial explosive for sale.

The use of explosives for fishing poses a serious threat to marine life and can cause long-lasting damage to the marine ecosystems. Thus, the Sri Lanka Navy has been conducting regular operations to crack down on explosive fishing practices.

As an extension of these efforts, SLNS Gokanna and SLNS Parakumba in the Eastern Naval Command conducted this operation with the assistance of Police STF Kanthale on 06th June. During the operation the Navy and STF personnel searched a person on suspicion in China Bay area and apprehended him for carrying 95 gelignite sticks for sale.

Meanwhile, the Naval Detachment Polmalkuda belonging to SLNS Ranweli in the Eastern Naval Command carried out another search operation on the night of 06th June in Yan Oya area of Pulmoddai and recovered 03 Water Gel sticks and 05 non electric detonators concealed in shrubs.

The suspect apprehended in China Bay is a resident of the same locality, aged 43. The suspect together with explosive items were handed over to the China Bay Police for onward legal action. Meanwhile, the 03 Water Gel sticks and 05 non electric detonators recovered in Yan Oya area were handed over to the Pulmoddai Police.