Suspect with commercial explosives arrested
The Sri Lanka Navy and Police Special Task Force (STF) arrested a person with 45 Water Gel sticks – a type of commercial explosive, during a search operation carried out in Erakkandi, Trincomalee on Monday (12). The arrest was made while the suspect was carrying the explosive items for sale.
The use of explosives for fishing poses a serious threat to marine life and can cause long-lasting damage to the marine eco-systems. Thus, the Sri Lanka Navy has been conducting regular operations to crack down on explosive fishing and other illegal fishing practices in the island waters.
The special operation was conducted by SLNS Vijayaba in the Eastern Naval Command and Sardarpura Police STF in Erakkandi area on June 12. During the operation, the naval and STF personnel interrogated a suspicious person on the road and arrested him for carrying 45 Water Gel sticks for sale by illegal means.
The 45-year-old suspect held during the search operation was identified as a resident of the Erakkandi area. The accused along with the 45 Water Gel sticks was handed over to the Kuchchaveli Police for further legal action.