SL to release 73 Indian fishermen following diplomatic intervention

At least 73 Indian fishermen held by Sri Lanka for allegedly fishing in their waters will be released, fisheries ministry officials said on Friday but their boats will be held back. Fisheries Minister Mahinda Amarasweera said yesterday that none of the Indian boats would be released despite the release of the fishermen. The Ministry has made the necessary recommendations for the release of the fishermen following interventions by the Indian High Commission here, officials said without indicating when they would be freed.

They had been held for allegedly poaching in violation of the Sri Lankan side of International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) between July 6-21. Lanka has also denied reports that it would allow restricted fishing in the Sri Lankan waters as part of the measures to counter bottom trawling by the Indians. (PTI)