The Australian Border Force and Sri Lanka Coast Guard have launched Disi Rela 2026, marking the third consecutive year of the joint maritime security initiative aimed at strengthening maritime surveillance, operational capability, and public awareness across Sri Lanka’s coastal regions. Disi Rela 2026 expands its community engagement and public awareness activities to Sri Lanka’s Eastern [...]
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The Australian Border Force and Sri Lanka Coast Guard have launched Disi Rela 2026, marking the third consecutive year of the joint maritime security initiative aimed at strengthening maritime surveillance, operational capability, and public awareness across Sri Lanka’s coastal regions.
Disi Rela 2026 expands its community engagement and public awareness activities to Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province, following activations conducted in the Western and Southern Provinces in previous years.
Disi Rela reflects the partnership between Australia and Sri Lanka to strengthen maritime security, combat transnational maritime crime, and promote safer seas. Through intelligence sharing, operational cooperation, advanced equipment support, and public awareness initiatives, both countries continue to work together to address threats including people smuggling, drug trafficking, illegal fishing, and other unlawful maritime activities.
The Australian Government has supported Sri Lanka’s maritime security efforts through the donation of 24 surveillance drones, 3 all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), 3 Stabicraft patrol vessels, and the establishment of a dedicated 24/7 hotline — 106.
The Australian Government will donate an additional 5 ATVs to support surveillance and rapid response.
Director General of the Sri Lanka Coast Guard, Rear Admiral Rohan Joseph, said: “As the initiative expands into the Eastern Province, community awareness and public participation continue to play a vital role in helping us protect our seas and prevent unlawful maritime activity.” Commander Maritime Border Command and Commander Joint Agency Task Force Operation Sovereign Borders, Rear Admiral Brett Sonter AM, Royal Australian Navy, said: “Through continued capability building, operational support, and community engagement, we are working together to strengthen maritime safety and security across the region.”
Print Edition – The Sunday Times, Sri Lanka
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