The Navy apprehended 02 persons for slaughtering sea turtles, during a search operation conducted in Arippu of Silawathura in Mannar today (22nd May 2023). Along with the suspects, the Navy also found 02 live sea turtles and some turtle flesh in their possession.

A search operation conducted by the Sri Lanka Navy and Police in Roddapadu beach area, Kalpitiya on 19th May 2023, led to the apprehension of 02 suspects with about 603kg of dried sea cucumber and 11520 shampoo packets (6ml each) hidden in a house.

A search operation conducted by the Sri Lanka Navy off Sinnaarichchalai, Kalpitiya on the night of 18th May 2023, led to the apprehension of 02 suspects with about 193kg (wet weight) of dried sea cucumber and several other contraband items being smuggled. The Navy also seized a dinghy used by the suspects, for this illegal act.

Based on information derived from a coordinated intelligence operation conducted by the State Intelligence Service and Sri Lanka Navy, a local multiday fishing trawler carrying about 111kg and 606g of heroin (including packages) and about 10kg and 254g (including packages) of hashish was intercepted by SLNS Vijayabahu on 13th May 2023. The special operation mounted about 413 nautical miles (about 764km) off Dondra, South of Sri Lanka, also led to the apprehension of 06 suspects involved in this illegal act. The Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, arrived at the Colombo Harbour this morning (18th May) to personally inspect the seized consignment.

In the wake of inclement weather prevailing in several parts of the island, the Navy has swiftly mobilized its relief teams in Galle, Akuressa, Kotapola, Nagoda, Thawalama, Kamburupitiya and Athuraliya areas in the Southern Province since 14th May 2023. Demonstrating their commitment to safeguarding lives and property, the Navy relief teams are currently engaged in alleviating the suffering of the affected communities.

As the inclement weather is looming, the Sri Lanka Navy has deployed relief teams in certain areas in the Southern Province, to provide assistance and support to those who may be affected by flood on 14th May 2023.

A dedicated search and rescue operation mounted this morning (14th May 2023) by the Sri Lanka Navy and Coast Guard led to the rescue of 06 fishermen aboard a local multiday fishing trawler in distress off Beruwala. Reportedly, the fishing trawler was at the risk of sinking due to seeping of sea water following adverse weather, whilst it was at sea about 08 nautical miles (about 15km) off the Beruwala Lighthouse. The rescue was made by Sri Lanka Coast Guard Craft CG 208.

A coordinated search operation conducted by the Navy and Police in Kilinochchi area on 11th May 2023 led to the apprehension of a suspect (01) with over 01kg of Kerala cannabis. The raiding party also held a motorbike used by the suspect to peddle the narcotic substance.

The Australian Border Force on 02nd May 2023 held 41 Sri Lankan nationals at the Australia’s maritime border, while they were attempting to illegally migrate to Australia via sea. A special flight, carrying the group of 41 Sri Lankans deported by Australian authorities, arrived at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) on 09th May 2023.

The Sri Lanka Navy apprehended 07 individuals who were preparing to engage in fishing with explosive, during a search operation conducted off Vankalai, Mannar on 08th May 2023. The search operation also led to the seizure of 10 Water Gel sticks - a type of commercial explosive, 18 non-electric detonators, diving gear and 01 dinghy.