Australia and Sri Lanka steadfast in combatting maritime crime

Thursday, 5 June 2025 03:46 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Australian Government donated a high-performance Stabicraft patrol vessel to support Sri Lanka’s maritime security efforts in combatting maritime crime with the launch of the next iteration of Disi Rela

Australia and Sri Lanka’s steadfast commitment to combatting maritime crime has entered a powerful new chapter with the launch of the next iteration of Disi Rela – a joint maritime security initiative designed to safeguard regional waters from a range of evolving threats.

Building on last year’s success, this expanded operation represents a major leap forward in our capabilities. The Australian Government has donated a high-performance Stabicraft patrol vessel to support Sri Lanka’s maritime security efforts. As part of a future initiative under the Disi Rela program, Australia also plans to provide advanced surveillance drones and maritime monitoring equipment valued at Rs. 12 million, further strengthening Sri Lanka’s capabilities in safeguarding its territorial waters.

Disi Rela means “keeping a watchful eye over the maritime environment” and reflects Australia and Sri Lanka’s joint commitment to prevent illegal maritime activity. Through the sharing of intelligence learnings, providing advanced equipment, community outreach and other capacity building measures, both countries are working together to enhance maritime security in our region by disrupting crimes such as human trafficking, drug smuggling, and unauthorised fishing.

Sri Lanka Coast Guard Director-General Rear Admiral Rajapriya Serasinghe highlighted the importance of public engagement in the mission: “Disi Rela represents more than technology and patrols – it reflects the power of cooperation, both between nations and with our communities. Every Sri Lankan plays a role in keeping our seas safe.”

Joint Agency Task Force Operation Sovereign Borders Commander Rear Admiral Brett Sonter, RAN, praised the continued partnership: “This next iteration of Disi Rela demonstrates how seriously both our nations take the shared responsibility of maritime security. With these new assets to expand our reach, we are reinforcing our commitment to keeping the region safe.”

The public is encouraged to report suspicious maritime activity anonymously via the dedicated 24/7 hotline number: 106.

This joint initiative reflects the deepening cooperation between Australia and Sri Lanka in tackling transnational crime and promoting a secure and stable maritime region.

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