Arrested Indian fishermen released

Ridma DISSANAYAKE

Nine Indian fishermen arrested by the Navy for straying into Sri Lankan waters on June 20 were freed by courts yesterday.

Kankesanthurai Judicial Magistrate Gajapathy Balan ordered the release of the fishermen from Akkaraipettai village near Nagapattinam when they were produced before him, Fisheries Ministry sources said.

The fishermen had put out to sea in a mechanised boat on June 16.

While fishing off Kodiakarai coast, they were taken into custody by Navy personnel.

The fishermen had strayed into Sri Lankan waters pushed by heavy winds.

After advising them not to venture into the sea if the winds were strong, the magistrate released them, Fisheries Department Assistant Director Vivekanandan said.