9 Indian Fishermen Arrested Near Delft Island for Alleged Illegal Fishing

The Sri Lankan Navy has arrested nine Indian fishermen and seized their trawler for allegedly fishing in the island nation's territorial waters, according to an official statement.

The fishermen were arrested on Saturday after they allegedly crossed the International Maritime Boundary Line and entered Sri Lankan waters south of Delft Island in Jaffna, the Navy said.

"During the operation, one Indian fishing trawler was seized, while nine Indian fishermen on board were taken into custody by SLNS Samudura," it said.

The apprehended fishermen were taken to Kankesanthurai Harbour and will be handed over to Sri Lanka's Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources for further legal proceedings, the statement said.

The arrests are likely to add to concerns surrounding the long-standing fishermen issue between India and Sri Lanka, which has remained a contentious matter in bilateral ties.

Sri Lankan Navy personnel have in several alleged incidents seized Indian fishing boats and taken fishermen into custody for reportedly entering the country's territorial waters. There have also been allegations of firing at Indian fishermen in the Palk Strait.

The Palk Strait, a narrow stretch of water separating Tamil Nadu from Sri Lanka, is a rich fishing ground traditionally used by fishermen from both countries.

Fishermen are frequently detained by the maritime authorities of either country after inadvertently crossing into each other's waters while fishing.

The issue has remained particularly sensitive for coastal communities in Tamil Nadu, where fishermen have repeatedly raised concerns over arrests, boat seizures and restrictions on access to traditional fishing grounds.

The latest arrests come amid continued efforts by India and Sri Lanka to address the issue through diplomatic and official channels. The detention of fishermen and seizure of their boats have periodically triggered calls for their early release and the return of impounded vessels.