Sri Lanka Demands Probe After Fishing Vessel Destroyed in Seychelles Waters
VICTORIA, Seychelles — Sri Lankan groups are demanding a formal probe after a Sri Lankan fishing vessel was destroyed in Seychelles waters on December 30, 2025. The interception has sparked diplomatic tensions and concerns about environmental damage from burning the vessel at sea.
The incident centres on the trawler Ishani-1, which departed from Wellamankara Harbour with six crew members on December 7, 2025. According to Sri Lankan media, the All Ceylon Multi-day Trawler Owners’ Association has strongly condemned the vessel’s destruction, urging both the Sri Lankan government and international organisations to investigate.
The Seychelles Defence Forces reported that the vessel was intercepted while engaged in illegal fishing within Seychelles’ Exclusive Economic Zone on December 30. Fishing gear and freshly caught fish were reportedly found on board. The vessel was later disposed of in accordance with enforcement procedures.
Sri Lankan authorities have engaged diplomatic channels to address the matter. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment, Arun Hemachandra, confirmed that measures are being coordinated with the Sri Lankan High Commission in Seychelles. The six fishermen remain in custody of the Seychelles Police.
Environmental concerns have also been raised by Sri Lankan groups, including the vessel’s owner Susil Fernando and association secretary Ruwan Fernando. They claim that burning the vessel may have released diesel, engine oil, and other waste into the sea, questioning why similar cases involving India and the Maldives resulted in vessel seizure without destruction.
Diplomatic discussions between Sri Lanka and Seychelles are ongoing.
📷 Image source: Seychelles Defence Forces (Coast Guard) — sdf.sc
