January 05, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s government has begun diplomatic and consular steps following the interception and destruction of a local fishing boat by authorities in the Seychelles, according to the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment, Arun Hemachandra.
The vessel, identified as Ishani-1, had set sail from the Wellamankaraya Fisheries Harbour in Wennappuwa earlier this month with six Sri Lankan fishermen aboard. It was detained by Seychelles maritime security forces late in December after entering waters under Seychelles jurisdiction. Officials there later confirmed that the boat was destroyed.
Mr Hemachandra said Colombo is working in close coordination with officials at the Sri Lankan High Commission in Seychelles to assess developments and maintain communication with local authorities. He added that the government has reviewed the statement issued by Seychelles security agencies and is continuing to follow the matter carefully.
The Deputy Minister also confirmed that consular support has been extended to the fishermen involved, with arrangements made to safeguard their welfare while diplomatic discussions continue. He noted that Sri Lanka remains committed to resolving the issue through established international and bilateral channels, while emphasising the importance of protecting its nationals overseas.
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