The Sri Lankan navy arrested 12 persons, including women and children, who tried to flee the island and escape to a foreign country via sea through Mannar on September 22nd.
Among the apprehended persons were two males and three females over 18 years and 7 more individuals who are below 18 years of age. “This group of would-be illegal immigrants was nabbed, whilst they were suspiciously wandering in the Oluthuduwai beach area in the dark hours,” claimed the Sri Lankan navy.
The navy subsequently transferred the arrested persons to the Mannar Police who are currently conducting an investigation. It is reported that following the investigation, all seven persons would be brought to trial at the Mannar Court.
The Sri Lanka navy claimed on its website that it "has been conducting regular patrols in island’s waters to thwart all forms of nefarious activities including illegal immigration attempts".
It has stopped several boats of asylum seekers - mainly Tamils from the North-East - in recent months.
