Four Fishermen Rescued Safely

04-Nov-2026

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The Ministry of Fisheries has announced that a fishing boat bearing registration number IMUL-A-0022 TLE, belonging to Kudawella, which had gone missing after losing communication links due to strong winds and rough sea conditions caused by Cyclone Arnab, along with its four crew members, has been safely located and rescued approximately 200 nautical miles off Pottuvil.

A statement issued by the Deputy Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Marine Resources said:

The boat had departed from the Kudawella Fisheries Harbour on October 21, with the intention of undertaking a four-day fishing trip. It was carrying four fishermen, namely W.P. Priyantha, P.P. Nimalsiri, L.Y. Naushad and K.H. Savindu, the owner of the boat.

Following a report to the Search and Rescue Coordination Centre of the Department of Fisheries that no information was available regarding the whereabouts of the boat, a special joint search operation was launched under the full intervention of the Ministry. The Sri Lanka Navy, the Coast Guard and other fishing boats operating in the area were coordinated for the operation.

As a result of the operation, the boat was located and all four fishermen were rescued in good health. Arrangements are currently being made to bring them safely ashore. Necessary basic medical examinations and first aid have also been arranged for them.

The Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Marine Resources has expressed its appreciation to the Sri Lanka Navy, the Coast Guard and the fishing community for their support in successfully carrying out the special rescue operation.