The Commitment of Australia and Sri Lanka to Combating Maritime Crime Remains Steadfast

Australia and Sri Lanka's steadfast commitment to combating maritime crime entered a new chapter with the launch of the third phase of Operation Disi Rela, a joint maritime security initiative designed to safeguard regional waters against a range of evolving maritime threats. The operation ceremonially commenced on 08^th June 2026 at the Kingsbury Hotel, Colombo.

The operation Disi Rela 3 Scheduled to continue until 17^th June 2026, across several locations in Sri Lanka, including Colombo, Trincomalee, Valaichchenai, Batticaloa, and Mirissa.

Disi Rela, meaning keeping a watchful eye over the maritime environment, reflects the shared commitment of Australia and Sri Lanka to preventing illegal maritime activities, building on the success of last year's operation. In further support of Sri Lanka's coastal and maritime security efforts, the Australian Government donated five (05) high-performance All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) and twelve (12) long range Drones to the Sri Lanka Coast Guard, thereby enhancing its capacity to respond and combat illicit activities along the coast line and adjacent seas.

Moreover, through this operation, Australia and Sri Lanka remain committed to preventing illegal maritime activities by strengthening joint operational efforts, enhancing intelligence-sharing among other law enforcement agencies and fostering closer engagement with coastal communities. These collaborative efforts are aimed at combating transnational maritime crimes, including human trafficking, drug smuggling, and illegal fishing, thereby contributing to the enhancement of regional maritime security and stability.

Furthermore, the opening ceremony was attended by the Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, His excellency Matthew Duckworth, the Australian Defence Adviser to Sri Lanka, Colonel Amanda Johnston, and officials from the Australian High Commission and representing Sri Lanka Coast Guard the Deputy Director General, Commodore Prasad Jayasinghe, departmental heads and a number of senior officers representing the Tri Services were also attended to this occasion.