The Iranian naval vessel IRIS Booshehr remained near Colombo yesterday after the process of transferring the ship to the Trincomalee Naval Base had not begun as planned, according to senior naval officials.
The Sri Lanka Navy had taken the vessel into custody and evacuated all personnel on board before bringing them to the Colombo Port. A total of 208 individuals were on the ship, including 53 officers, 84 cadets, 48 senior sailors, and 23 regular sailors. The Navy is currently providing them with accommodation and necessary facilities at the Welisara Naval Base.
Authorities acted after the vessel was located in waters near Sri Lanka. Under the direction of the President, the Navy took steps to rescue the personnel on board, bring them safely to Colombo Port, and make arrangements to move the ship to the Trincomalee Naval Base while ensuring that all actions comply with international maritime law.
Although the transfer of the vessel to Trincomalee had been planned following the evacuation of its crew, the process had not started by yesterday. A senior Navy official stated that several legal procedures must first be completed before the Iranian ship can be transported to the eastern naval base.
The official further explained that once these legal requirements are fulfilled, the necessary arrangements will be made to take the IRIS Booshehr to Trincomalee for further handling in accordance with international maritime regulations.
Sri Lankan authorities have emphasized that the matter is being handled carefully, balancing legal obligations under maritime law with the responsibility of ensuring the welfare of the Iranian naval personnel currently under the care of the Sri Lanka Navy.
