Chennai: The Sri Lankan Navy has arrested 35 more Tamil Nadu fishermen, one country boat, and three motor boats for allegedly fishing across the border by crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL).
Among the arrested fishermen, four fishermen who had previously set sail from Tamil Nadu and Puducherry ports to fish in Sri Lankan waters were arrested yesterday and their country boats were confiscated.
Subsequently, 31 fishermen aboard three motor boats were also arrested on similar charges, two carrying 10 people each and one carrying 11 people. All three motor boats were also confiscated.
Taken to Kankesanthurai Naval Camp
After their arrest, the 35 fishermen were taken to Kankesanthurai Naval Camp and will be handed over to Jaffna Fisheries Department officials after investigation. A Sri Lankan Navy spokesperson stated that they will be produced in court and imprisoned.
Concern Among the Fishermen Community
Jaffna Fisheries Department officials stated that the arrested fishermen may be from the Nagapattinam and Karaikal regions of Tamil Nadu. This incident has once again raised concerns among the fishing community in coastal Tamil Nadu. Over the past month and a half, the Sri Lankan Navy has arrested more than 40 fishermen.
Demand for a Resolution of the Maritime Dispute
Fishermen’s families are demanding a resolution to the continued arrests and the ongoing maritime dispute with Sri Lanka. They have urged the Indian government to intervene and rescue the Tamil Nadu fishermen who were previously arrested and are in jail.
