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Sri Lanka Confiscates and Auctions Indian Bottom Trawler for Rs 2 Million
In a move to curb illegal bottom trawling in Sri Lankan waters, authorities confiscated and auctioned an Indian fishing trawler and equipment for Rs 2.04 million at a public auction held at the Point Pedro Magistrate Court premises yesterday.
Background: Stronger Measures Against Illegal Fishing
On December 29, 2022, four Indian fishermen were apprehended by the Sri Lanka Navy while engaging in bottom trawling near Valvettithurai. Following legal proceedings, the fishermen were released and repatriated with the intervention of the Indian High Commission, but their fishing trawler and equipment were seized under Sri Lanka’s amended fisheries law.
The seized assets, which included the trawler, fishing nets, two Global Positioning System (GPS) devices, an external cooler, and an anchor, were later auctioned for Rs 2,042,350.
Confiscation vs. Arrest: A More Effective Deterrent
Local sources report that confiscating trawlers serves as a stronger deterrent compared to arresting Indian fishermen. The Sri Lankan government faces diplomatic challenges when firing at or imprisoning foreign fishermen, as jailing them is costly and overcrowds prisons. Additionally, India has opposed harsh actions against its fishermen but cannot formally object to the confiscation of trawlers, making it a more effective strategy.
Sri Lanka’s Stance on Illegal Fishing
Sri Lanka has been cracking down on poaching in its territorial waters, as bottom trawling severely damages marine ecosystems and depletes local fish stocks. Authorities have increasingly relied on seizing and auctioning fishing vessels as a legal deterrent, in line with the Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Act amendments.
This latest development highlights Sri Lanka’s commitment to protecting its maritime resources while maintaining diplomatic balance with India. Stay updated on more fisheries and maritime security news with Lanka News Line .
