Image used to represent | Photo credit: L. Balachandar
Six fishermen, all natives of Kanniyakumari district, who ventured into the sea from Mandapam, were arrested by the Sri Lanka Navy in the wee hours of Tuesday (May 12, 2026).
According to sources, six fishermen, including 35-year-old Alex from Kanniyakumari district, went fishing from Mandapam South Fishing Harbor in a country boat.
While they were fishing in the South Mannar area early on Tuesday, a patrolling team of the Sri Lanka Navy apprehended the fishermen along with their boat and escorted them to the Dikkowita fishing port.
Sources said the fishermen, though hailing from Kanniyakumari district, were staying in the Mandapam area since March 30, 2026 after obtaining permission from the Fisheries Department. Since then they have been engaged in fishing operations on country boats.
It may be noted that the 61-day annual fishing ban in effect until June 14 prohibits mechanized boats from entering the sea. During the prohibition period, only rural boats can carry out fishing activities.
Published – 12 May 2026 14:20 IST
