Missing for a Month, Aceh Fisherman Washes Ashore in Sri Lanka

An Acehnese fisherman from Pulo Aceh, Sadiqin, has been found washed ashore in Colombo, Sri Lanka, after being reported missing whilst fishing.

“Sadiqin was reported missing on 1 February 2026. At that time, he was fishing using a small motorised boat commonly known as a bot teptep,” said Miftachuddin Tjut Adek, the Aceh Maritime Commander, on Saturday, 14 March 2026.

According to him, Sadiqin was discovered to have washed ashore in Sri Lanka after the Aceh Maritime Commander received information from sources in the country. He is currently at a hospital located approximately two hours’ travel from Colombo receiving medical treatment.

“However, the exact time when he was found by local authorities remains unknown,” Miftachuddin added.

The Aceh Maritime Commander has communicated this information to the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries through the Marine Resource and Fisheries Monitoring Station in Lampulo, Banda Aceh. The information can now be followed up for handling procedures and further coordination regarding the fisherman’s repatriation.

Sadiqin departed for fishing on 1 February from Gampong Meulingge village in Pulo Aceh subdistrict, Aceh Besar district, operating the small boat alone.

The boat is believed to have suffered engine damage in the open sea. It was subsequently carried by ocean currents to Sri Lanka. Sadiqin remained missing until his whereabouts became known to the Aceh Maritime Commander.