Sri Lanka Navy embarked on a search and rescue (SAR) operation to assist in the ongoing operations surrounding the capsized Chinese fishing vessel, Lu Peng Yuan Yu 028. Tragically, the outcome of the mission resulted in the recovery of 14 bodies.
Acting on the directives of Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, the Sri Lanka Navy swiftly mobilized SLNS Vijayabahu, their offshore patrol vessel, equipped with a team of skilled Navy divers. Prior to their arrival at the scene, regional stakeholders had already initiated extensive aerial and surface searches in the vicinity of the overturned Chinese fishing vessel.
Upon reaching the location, the Navy divers fearlessly ventured into the treacherous depths, their mission to search for any possible survivors within the upturned vessel. Despite facing immense challenges such as zero visibility and turbulent waters, the Navy divers displayed unwavering determination. The relentless efforts of these brave individuals led to the recovery of two bodies from the captain’s cabin and accommodation area, which were subsequently handed over to the Tug De Tian present at the scene.
Undeterred by the hazardous conditions, the Navy divers continued their painstaking search, uncovering an additional 12 bodies from various compartments of the ill-fated vessel. However, due to the advanced state of decomposition and the potential health hazards posed by operating in contaminated waters, retrieving the remaining bodies became an exceedingly dangerous task. In order to ensure the safety of the SLN divers, a decision was made to map the locations of the bodies as a priority.