Sri Lankan Navy Apprehends Nine Rameswaram Fishermen, Seizes Powerboats

The Sri Lankan Navy has apprehended nine fishermen from Tamil Nadu's Rameswaram and seized two powerboats, citing illegal fishing. This incident has sparked protests from the local fishermen's community, demanding the release of the detained and compensation for seized vessels.

The Sri Lankan Navy apprehended nine fishermen from Tamil Nadu's Rameswaram on Monday, according to the Rameswaram Fishermen Association. The Navy reportedly seized two powerboats, alleging they were fishing across the border.

The Fishermen Association stated that 535 boats set out for fishing on Monday, with the Navy detaining the fishermen near Thalaimannar in the Gulf of Mannar region.

On July 19, Rameswaram fishermen staged a massive protest against the frequent arrests by the Sri Lankan Navy, demanding the release of 74 fishermen detained this year. They also sought the release of 170 seized steamboats and country boats, a total tally from 2018 to 2024. The protest, orchestrated by the Rameswaram Fishermen and the Pampan All Fishermen Federation, took place near the Rameswaram bus station. They demanded compensation for any damage and called for unhindered access to traditional fishing areas like Kachchthivu.

(With inputs from agencies.)