Sri Lankan Navy arrests 3 more Indian fishermen; concern grows in Rameswaram

December 30, 2025

Chennai: A wave of concern swept through the fishing community in Rameswaram on Tuesday when the Sri Lankan Navy arrested three Indian fishermen and seized their mechanical trawler and took it to the Karainagar Naval Base.

The arrested fishermen have been identified as Ruban, Nagarajan, and Prabhu. They set out to sea on Monday night from the Rameswaram fishing port after obtaining token clearance. Their boat was seized by the Sri Lankan Navy after being apprehended near Naduntheevu (Delft Island).

Fishermen’s fears increase due to continued arrests

According to officials, a total of 415 fishing boats ventured out to sea on Monday. As news of the arrests spread, an atmosphere of anxiety and insecurity prevailed among the fishermen’s families.

V.P. Jeesu Raja, leader of the Rameswaram Fishermen’s Association, condemned the incident, saying the continued arrests were causing mental and financial distress to the community.

“Our repeated appeals are being ignored. The Indian and Sri Lankan governments should meet at a high level and find a lasting solution.”

13 fishermen arrested in the last two weeks

This incident marks the third arrest in the last 15 days. During this period, 13 fishermen were arrested and three trawlers were seized. Most were released only after paying heavy fines, further worsening the financial situation of their families.

“Every fishing trip now feels like a threat to life and livelihood,” said Jisu Raja, appealing to the central government to intervene immediately and ensure the release of all arrested fishermen and their trawlers.