On Tuesday, the Sri Lankan navy arrested nine fishermen from Rameswaram and seized two boats near Neduntheevu, Tamil Nadu, for allegedly crossing the international border. The fishermen were part of a larger group that had ventured out on Monday in 430 boats after obtaining the necessary permissions.
While fishing near Neduntheevu, the Sri Lankan navy surrounded them, causing the fishermen to scatter. The two boats, owned by Isaac Robin and Selvakumar, were captured, and the nine fishermen aboard were detained by the Sri Lankan navy, which claimed they had crossed the international border. The arrested fishermen were taken to the Kangesanthurai Naval Camp and are expected to be handed over to the Jaffna Fisheries Department Authorities. After an inquiry, they are likely to be imprisoned.
In a related incident, fishermen reported that another group fishing near Katchatheevu was chased away by a Sri Lankan navy vessel. This vessel also rammed into an Indian fishing boat, causing severe damage. The fishermen have demanded immediate intervention from the central government to secure the release of the arrested individuals.
