The Sri Lanka Navy has launched a special rescue operation to assist 11 Indian fishermen after their fishing vessel ran aground near Delft Island while allegedly operating illegally inside Sri Lankan territorial waters.
According to the Sri Lanka Navy, the Indian fishing vessel had crossed the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) and entered Sri Lankan waters illegally before the incident occurred. The vessel is reported to have been engaged in illegal fishing activities within Sri Lanka’s maritime boundary on the night of 5 August when it encountered difficulties.
Navy Media Spokesperson Commander Chaminda Walakuluge said the vessel was carrying 11 fishermen at the time of the incident. The accident occurred after the boat, which had crossed into Sri Lankan waters, struck a coastal reef off Delft Island amid adverse weather conditions during the night.
The collision left the fishing vessel partially damaged after it became stranded on the reef. Despite the damage to the boat, the Sri Lanka Navy said there was no immediate threat to the lives of the fishermen and that none of those on board were reported to be in a critical condition.
Following notification of the incident, naval personnel attached to the Northern Naval Command were deployed to the area to carry out rescue operations. Teams were dispatched to ensure the safe evacuation of the fishermen and transport them securely to shore.
Relief personnel are continuing operations to bring the fishermen ashore safely, while the Sri Lanka Navy remains closely engaged in monitoring the situation. The rescue mission is ongoing as authorities work to complete the operation under prevailing conditions.
The incident occurred after the Indian fishing vessel allegedly violated the International Maritime Boundary Line before entering Sri Lankan territorial waters, where it later ran aground near Delft Island. According to the Navy, the combination of the alleged illegal entry and adverse weather conditions culminated in the maritime accident.
The Sri Lanka Navy said it will continue to monitor developments closely and is expected to release further information as the rescue operation progresses. The immediate priority remains the safe recovery of all 11 fishermen following the grounding of the vessel near the northern coast of Sri Lanka.
