Tensions Escalate as Sri Lankan Navy Arrests Nine Indian Fishermen

The Sri Lankan Navy arrested nine Indian fishermen for allegedly poaching in its waters, raising the total number to 261 this year. The contentious issue has strained India-Sri Lanka relations, with both sides frequently arresting fishermen inadvertently crossing territorial waters in the Palk Strait.

The Sri Lankan Navy on Tuesday arrested nine Indian fishermen and seized their trawlers for allegedly poaching in its territorial waters, officials here said. This brings the total number of Indian nationals apprehended by the island nation this year to 261.

The arrests occurred off the coast of Delft islet in the northern Jaffna peninsula, according to the Navy. Earlier in July, the Navy reported that 252 Indian fishermen had been arrested, and 35 trawlers seized for similar offenses.

This latest incident escalates tensions between the two nations, following Sri Lanka's expression of concern over the death of a naval sailor during an operation to seize an Indian trawler. The Palk Strait, separating Tamil Nadu from Sri Lanka, remains a hotspot for such disputes due to its rich fishing grounds, leading to frequent arrests on both sides.

(With inputs from agencies.)