The Navy Media Director, Captain Dayan Wickremesuriya, said that the first Sri Lanka vessel deployed on maritime security patrol had completed its mission and returned to Sri Lanka two days ago.

He said the Navy deployed SMS Gajaba with a 100-strong crew to ensure security for merchant and fishing vessels and prevent drug trafficking in the Indian Ocean region in collaboration with the combined maritime force.

Pointing out that the Arabian Sea was known for piracy, he said Sri Lankan naval ships were being sent to the area to ensure freedom of navigation for merchants and fishing vessels.