Indian Coast Guard Arrests Three Sri Lankans Attempting to Infiltrate Tamil Nadu
- Three Sri Lankan nationals were arrested while trying to enter Tamil Nadu by sea.
- The individuals had criminal backgrounds linked to the drug mafia.
- They paid Rs 2 lakh for the journey to reach Europe via Tamil Nadu.
Indian Coast Guard Nabs Sri Lankans Attempting Infiltration
Indian Coast Guard apprehends three Sri Lankan nationals, specifically two Sinhalese men and one Tamil, as they attempted to infiltrate Tamil Nadu via sea early on Saturday. This incident occurred near Dhanushkodi, a location notorious for its association with smuggling and other illegal activities due to its closeness to Sri Lanka. The operation was conducted around 4 AM after the Coast Guard intensified its surveillance and dispatched hovercrafts to patrol the sea corridor that separates India from Sri Lanka.
Details Emerge About the Arrested Nationals
These arrested individuals, identified as Sumith Rolan Fernando, Sahara Gunathilaga, and Kabilan, had reportedly paid a substantial fee of Rs 2 lakh for this illegal crossing. They commenced their journey from Pechalai district, departing shortly after 9 PM the preceding Friday. Their ultimate goal was to reach a European nation through Tamil Nadu, demonstrating the lengths some are willing to go for illegal migration opportunities.
Connections to Drug Mafia Raise Concerns
Authorities confirmed that Kabilan has a prior history involving a drug-related case and is currently out on bail. Meanwhile, the Sinhalese suspects are also connected to the drug mafia, showcasing a concerning trend among some individuals attempting to leave the island nation. Earlier, similar incidents have led the Sri Lankan Coast Guard to arrest two other individuals who were noted for their criminal backgrounds while trying to cross into Tamil Nadu. The captured trio has been handed over to State Marine Police at Mandapam to assist with the ongoing investigation.
In summary, the Indian Coast Guard has made significant arrests of three Sri Lankan nationals attempting to illegally enter Tamil Nadu, highlighting ongoing issues related to illegal migration and crime. The individuals involved have criminal backgrounds, mainly linked to the drug trade, amplifying concerns about organized networks operating across borders. Following this operation, the Coast Guard’s vigilance along the Tamil Nadu coast has been reaffirmed, ensuring continued efforts to curb such illegal activities.
