Sri Lankan Navy Arrests 12 Indian Fishermen, Seizes Fishing Boat

The fishermen had left Karaikal fishing harbor early on Thursday. On Saturday night, they were fishing near Point Calimere with other boats. Around 2:40 am on Sunday, personnel of Sri Lanka’s Northern Naval Command confronted their group.

12 Indian Fishermen Arrested in Jaffna

The Sri Lankan Navy arrested 12 Indian fishermen along the Delft sea coast in Jaffna. They are accused of crossing into Sri Lanka’s territorial waters while fishing. The navy also seized their boat, intensifying tensions that may affect relations between the two neighboring countries.

Official Statement from the Navy

In an official statement, the Sri Lankan Navy said, “In the early hours of 28 September 2025, the Sri Lankan Navy seized an Indian fishing boat engaged in illegal fishing in Sri Lankan waters near Delft Island in Jaffna and arrested 12 Indian fishermen.” The statement further added that the Indian fishermen had entered Sri Lankan waters and were fishing illegally.

Legal Proceedings Initiated

The arrested fishermen and the seized boat were taken to Kankesanthurai harbor. Later, they were handed over to the fisheries inspector at Mailadi for further legal action. No official response has yet come from Indian authorities regarding the incident.

Dispute Over Fishermen Continues

The fishermen’s issue has remained a long-standing dispute between India and Sri Lanka. Several incidents of alleged trespassing into Sri Lankan waters have strained ties. At times, Sri Lankan naval personnel have even opened fire on Indian fishermen in the Palk Strait and confiscated their boats during such operations.

Fishermen’s Identities Confirmed

According to a report by The Times of India, out of the arrested fishermen, ten are from Karaikal district, one from Nagapattinam, and one from Mayiladuthurai. The seized boat belongs to 44-year-old T. Selvam from Kottuchery Medu village in Karaikal district.

Fishing Trip Before Arrest

The fishermen had departed from Karaikal harbor early on Thursday. By Saturday night, they were fishing south of Kodiyakarai (Point Calimere) along with other boats. At around 2:40 am on Sunday, Sri Lanka’s Northern Naval Command intercepted and detained them.