Navy assists to bring ashore ill fisherman in eastern seas, through MRCC coordination

The Sri Lanka Navy brought ashore an ill fisherman who was in critical condition aboard a local multiday fishing trawler, about 16 nautical miles (29km) off Trincomalee. Upon being brought ashore, he was rushed to the Trincomalee General Hospital on the night of 10 Dec 25 for medical attention.

Reportedly, the multiday fishing trawler ‘Akeeth 2’ (IMUL-A-0957 TLE), with six (06) crew members, had set off from the Cod Bay fisheries harbour on 02 December for fishing. Meanwhile, one of the crew members had taken critically ill while aboard the trawler, which was about 16 nautical miles off Trincomalee. Incidentally, the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, alerted the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Colombo, about the situation and requested assistance. Responding to the urgent situation, the Navy directed a Fast Attack Craft attached to the Eastern Naval Command to the designated sea area to bring the patient ashore.

The fisherman in critical condition was safely transferred to the Fast Attack Craft on the night of 10 December and he was brought to the Trincomalee Harbour, while administering first aid. Once brought ashore, he was rushed to the Trincomalee General Hospital.

The Sri Lanka Navy continues to exemplify its dedication and unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives at sea, remaining ever alert to this nature of incidents taking place in Sri Lanka’s Search and Rescue Region.