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NorthEast fishing communities suffer from SL Navy bans, attacks

Following the Pesalai church attack on 17 June, the Sri Lankan Navy (SLN) denied fishermen the right to fish in the Pesalai sea area. Due to this many people displaced to Tamil Nadu, and the remaining civilians have been suffering from denial of livelihood. After the fishery societies placed heavy pressure on the SLN, the ban was partially lifted for fishermen to work only in the mornings beginning on 17 July.

It is commonly known among the fishing community that day-time fishing is not beneficial due to climate, sea patterns, and locating fish itself. Even with the partial lifting of the ban, the civilians in Pesalai sea area are suffering.

A meeting with the AGA of Mannar district and SLA commanders at Sani village was held recently, but did not result in any immediate decisions to address the needs of the fishing community.

Mullaitivu

Fishermen from Ampalavanpokkanai were attacked by the Sri Lankan Navy (SLN) when they were fishing 1 km from the shore on Monday, 24 July. The SLN opened fire and the fishermen rushed to shore without their catches and nets.

At the same time, Tamil civilians observing a holy day were bathing in the sea as part of a Tamil tradition. When the SLN began firing, they ran to their homes out of fear.

Vadamarachchi

The SLN announced a fishing ban for fishermen of the Vadamarachchi seas on Monday, 24 July. The SLN stated the ban will remain until further notice. Following this ban and the recent abductions of two fisheries society presidents in Vadamarachchi, civilians are remaining in their homes due to fear.

25 July 2006

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