May 26, Colombo: The Sri Lanka Navy today (26th May 2023) brought ashore a fisherman who had fallen seriously ill at deep seas while aboard a multiday fishing trawler.

The rescue operation took place approximately 460 nautical miles (about 851km) off the coast of Galle, in the southwestern region of Sri Lanka.

According to the Navy, the fisherman was working in a Sri Lankan multiday fishing trawler named 'Krevin Baba 01 that left Dickkovita fisheries harbor on 23rd May for fishing with six crew members on board.

When the fisherman fell ill the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, alerted the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC), at the Navy Headquarters in Colombo, about the development.

Responding to the urgent situation, the Navy directed SLNS Vijayabahu which was on surveillance duties in southern waters to the designated sea area to bring the patient ashore.

On 24th May, naval personnel braved rough seas and transferred the ailing fisherman to the naval ship. The ship then proceeded towards the Galle harbor and the Navy also administered crucial first aid to the patient aboard.

Upon arrival in Galle today (26th May) the patient was swiftly rushed to the Karapitiya Teaching Hospital for further treatment.

The Sri Lanka Navy stated that it continues to exemplify its dedication and unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives at sea, serving as a beacon of hope and security for seafarers and the fishing community.