In a recent development, 21 Indian fishermen have now been freed from Colombo prison. Following their release, they arrived at Chennai airport on Saturday morning.
Taking to X, the Indian high commission at Colombo said ‘Returning home! 21 Indian fishermen have been successfully repatriated and are on their way to Chennai from Colombo.’
Returning home! 21 Indian fishermen have been successfully repatriated and are on their way to Chennai from Colombo. https://t.co/QyPz06KkJR pic.twitter.com/0ipSIg6OFU
— India in Sri Lanka (@IndiainSL) August 2, 2024
Earlier, The Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka with Consulate General facilitated the release of 20 Sri Lankan fishermen on Thursday.
High Commission @IndiainSL and @CGJaffna in cooperation with GoSL authorities secured release of 20 Indian fishermen. DHC @DrSatyanjal and other officials met the fishermen today, ascertained their well-being and assured their repatriation within a day. pic.twitter.com/kD8mdSx3Q9
— India in Sri Lanka (@IndiainSL) August 1, 2024
The officials of Indian consulate made a visit to Kayts police station and spoke with two of the four fishermen whose boat got capsized, after it clashed with Sri Lankan naval boat.
After ascertaining well-being of fishermen Muthumuniyandu and Mookaiah, he promised to give them necessary support possible.
What Happened?
On Thursday, at 5 nautical miles of North Katchatheevu Island, a Sri Lankan naval vessel & an indian boat collided with each other.
As a result, out of four fishermen, one lost its life and another disappeared. The remaining two were saved and were brought to Kankesanthurai.
Later, the Sri Lankan high commissioner was summoned by MEA (Ministry of External Affairs)in New Delhi. A firm protest was lodged over the death of an Indian fisherman.
Must Read: Sri Lankan Navy detains 25 Indian fishermen from Tamil Nadu and Puducherry
Currently, the search for missing indian fisherman continues. Moreover, Indian consulate officials in Jaffna have been instructed to urgently proceed to Kankesanthurai and offer all available support to the fishermen and their families.
(With Inputs From ANI)
