A tense situation erupted between Sri Lanka Navy personnel and a group of fishermen during a special operation on 3 June (Tuesday) targeting illegal poaching activities in the seas off Kuchchaveli, Trincomalee.

According to reports, 11 fishing vessels were involved in the confrontation. During the operation, one group allegedly surrounded a Navy vessel and attempted to flee the area, leading to a scuffle with Navy personnel.

The Navy stated that it tried to defuse the situation, but when an attempt was made to seize their firearms, personnel were compelled to fire warning shots into the air. Amid the continued provocation, a firearm discharged unintentionally, injuring a 23-year-old man, who was admitted to the Trincomalee District General Hospital for treatment.

The Sri Lanka Navy has launched an investigation into the incident, while fishermen in Kuchchaveli have staged a protest in response to the clash.