The Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources announced on 29th of October that the multi-day fishing vessel IMUL-A-0066-MTR, which set out from the Devundara Fisheries Harbour, Matara for fishing on 31st of August, capsized in international waters near the Maldives.
The vessel was drifted with the currents to the Indonesian territorial waters, where four fishermen on board were rescued safely.
The vessel, which was carrying six fishermen, was distressed on 16th of October, and one of the fishermen is missing. It is reported that another out of the five individuals remained on the hull of the vessel has died subsequently.
An Indonesian fishing vessel rescued the four fishermen from the capsized vessel, and they have informed the Sri Lankan authorities. The fishermen are currently being transferred to a nearby merchant ship.
Director General of the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Susantha Kahawatte, has stated that "A Sri Lanka Navy ship has already left to bring the rescued fishermen. Since this place is located about 300 nautical miles away from the Hambantota port, the journey will take some time. However, we hope to bring these fishermen to the island as soon as possible."
Rescued fishermen:
H.K.A.D. Lakmal
W.B.O. Madhushanka
P.M.S.A. Kumara
T.H.P. Nimanka
Fishermen suspected of missing/dead:
E.D.R. Navodana
L.H.D.A. Suranga
The Ministry is taking actions to bring the rescued fishermen back to the island as soon as possible, in coordination with all relevant parties.
