SLAF Joins Search for Missing Fishermen off Dondra and Kalutara

The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) has deployed a Bell 412 helicopter and a Y-12 aircraft to assist in an urgent search and rescue mission for fishermen missing after two separate boat accidents off the coasts of Dondra and Kalutara.

Acting on the directive of the Defence Secretary, the SLAF launched aerial reconnaissance efforts while the Sri Lanka Navy and local fishermen continue search operations at sea. Navy divers have also been deployed to aid in the rescue mission.

The first incident involved a fishing vessel that left Dondra Fisheries Harbour on the evening of June 27 with five fishermen on board. It is suspected the boat collided with a commercial vessel approximately 20 nautical miles from the shore. One fisherman was rescued, while four remain unaccounted for.

In a separate incident off Kalutara, two brothers from Aluthgama Nadun Kumara and Duminda Nadun Kumara went missing after their small fishing boat, owned by Dhanusha Marine, disappeared at sea. Although the vessel has since been recovered, the fishermen remain missing.

Local communities have mobilized in support, launching their own search efforts alongside military and police operations. The search continues.

The post SLAF Joins Search for Missing Fishermen off Dondra and Kalutara appeared first on LankaTruth English.