Six Indian fishermen arrested by Sri Lankan Navy; country boat seized

Six fishermen, all natives of Kanniyakumari district, who had ventured into the sea from Mandapam, were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy in the early hours of Tuesday (May 12, 2026).

According to sources, the six fishermen, including 35-year-old Alex from Kanniyakumari district, had set out for fishing from the Mandapam South Fishing Harbour in a country boat.

While they were fishing in the South Mannar region early on Tuesday, a patrolling team from the Sri Lankan Navy apprehended the fishermen, along with their boat, and escorted them to the Dikkowita Fishing Harbour.

Sources said the fishermen, though hailing from Kanniyakumari district, had been staying in the Mandapam region since March 30, 2026, after obtaining permission from the Fisheries Department. They have since been engaged in fishing operations in country boats.

It may be noted that the 61-day annual fishing ban, in force until June 14, prohibits mechanised boats from venturing into the sea. Only country boats are permitted for fishing activities during the ban period.