The Hon. M. Nizam Kariapper, PC

¶ 01 Prevention of criminal activities affecting livelihood of fishermen of Ampara and Batticaloa

¶ 02 Hon. Presiding Member, I raise with deep concern a critical issue that has plagued our eastern coastal fishing communities—Kalmunai, Sainthamaruthu, Kalmunai South, Kattankudy, Valachchenai, and Batticaloa—for over 12 years. Organized sea-borne gangs based around Kallady/ Kaluwanchikudy, operating with fast boats, rob catches in deep sea, destroy high-value gear, and intimidate fishermen. Arrests are rare, prosecutions weak, and deterrence absent. Everyone knows who leads these gangs; it is improper to name him here. There are also links with certain groups formerly involved in militancy and politics.

¶ 03 At the Batticaloa District Coordinating Committee on 17 May 2023, decisions were taken to limit fish-landing sites and cap engine power at 25 hp. These remain unimplemented. Who is blocking enforcement?

¶ 04 I request: 1) Immediate implementation of the DCC decision on limiting landing points and 25 hp engines. 2) Deploy Sri Lanka Navy for coastal and offshore patrols, especially at night, to deter criminal interference in fisheries. 3) Appoint a special Navy coordinator for the Eastern littoral to conduct routine patrols, liaise directly with affected communities, and ensure rapid response. 4) Take firm action against organized offenders to prevent violence.

¶ 05 I appeal especially to the Ministry of Defence and the State Minister of Defence to act urgently, with support from Government MPs of Ampara and Batticaloa who have discussed this with us. Please treat this as my personal request on behalf of our fishermen.