Sri Lanka, Sept. 21 -- The Sri Lanka Navy says it has arrested 78 individuals suspected of engaging in illegal fishing along the country's coastal waters during special operations conducted between September 1 and 15.

The operations, carried out by the Eastern, Northern, and Ginigathenna Naval Commands, covered areas across Trincomalee and Jaffna.

Authorities seized 35 dinghies and one multi-day fishing vessel along with the suspects, who were reportedly using prohibited fishing methods, including banned nets and explosives.

The Navy confirmed that the arrested individuals, vessels, and equipment have been handed over to local Fisheries and Aquatic Resource Department offices in Trincomalee, Jaffna, Batticaloa, and Kalmunai for further...