The Sri Lanka Navy has launched search operations for seven fishermen reported missing in two separate incidents off the island's northern and southern coasts, the Navy spokesman said, with the Sri Lanka Air Force assisting from the air.

In the first incident, three fishermen who set out to sea from Puthumathalan in Mullaitivu on October 26 were reported missing by their boat's owner on Tuesday, October 27. After the report reached the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Colombo, the Navy deployed a vessel to search the area and a Bell 212 helicopter was deployed to assist, according to the Navy.

Source: NationScope / Sri Lanka Navy

In the second incident, four fishermen who departed Kudawella in Matara on October 21 were reported missing by their boat owner on Wednesday, October 28. Their boat last communicated with the owner on October 23. The Navy said MRCC Colombo was informed, a Navy vessel was deployed, and Air Force assistance was also requested for the joint search.

Source: Asian Mirror / Sri Lanka Navy

Search operations were continuing for all seven men, the Navy said. No wreckage or casualties had been confirmed in the reports available at the time of publication, and the cause of either disappearance has not been stated by the authorities.