SLN and SLAF Mobilized to Rescue Distressed Fishermen
June 28, 2025A fishing trawler carrying five fishermen capsized off the southern coast of Koggala and another empty dinghy boat washed on Aluthgama beach earlier today (June 28), prompting an immediate rescue operation coordinated by the Sri Lanka Navy (SLN) and Air Force (SLAF).
Upon receiving the distress alerts, Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd) promptly instructed the SLN and SLAF to mobilize rescue and reconnaissance operations to locate and assist the crew.
Acting swiftly, the SLN deployed an FAC (P491) to the location of the incident. As of now, one fisherman has been rescued and is currently receiving medical attention. FAC P420 is also deployed with a navy diving team and rescued another fisherman along with two (02) dead bodies from the capsized trawler. Efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining crew members of boath trawler and dinghy.
Simultaneously, the SLAF initiated aerial reconnaissance using a Y-12 aircraft, which is actively surveying the area to aid in locating the missing fishermen. A Bell 412 helicopter has also been placed on standby at the Koggala Air Base, ready for immediate deployment if further aerial intervention is required.
The joint operation highlights the readiness and coordination between the nation’s defence services in responding to maritime emergencies. Navy and Air Force teams continue to work in tandem with local authorities and fishing communities to expedite the rescue mission under challenging sea conditions.
Authorities urge coastal communities and fellow seafarers to remain alert and report any sightings that may assist in the ongoing search. Further updates are expected as the operation develops.