Sri Lanka Navy assists returning Sri Lankan fishermen in Indian custody.

Eleven Sri Lankan fishermen in Indian custody were handed over to Sri Lankan Naval authorities today (06th January 2010). The early release of these fishermen by Indian competent authorities comes as a direct result of speedy efforts taken by the Sri Lanka Government. Naval authorities took charge of the eleven fishermen and the multiday fishing trawler ‘Krishanthi Duwa 2’ from Indian Coast Guard Vessel C 138 at the Indo - Sri lanka Maritime Border Southwest of Mannar Island.

The fishermen who are from Trincomalee and Negambo had ventured out to sea for deep sea fishing. Subsequently they had been arrested by Indian authorities for allegedly fishing in Indian waters on November 24th and December 05th last year (2009) and taken to India. The timely involvement of the Sri Lanka Government led to the early return of these eleven Sri Lankan nationals. The returning fishermen arrived at the Mannar Naval Base on board two Fast Attack Craft and a Water Jet craft which were dispatched to take charge of them by Naval authorities.

The eleven fishermen, six from Trincomalee and five from Negambo will return back to their respective areas after completing required formalities.

More Picture >>>