Myanmar releases 12 SL fishermen

Twelve Sri Lankan fishermen which were taken into custody by Myanmar Navy in February, have been released, the Sri Lankan Ambassador to Myanmar said.

The fishermen were arrested on February 11 and were charged with trespassing into Myanmar waters, fishing in those waters, disobeying naval orders and entering the country.

The two captains of the fishing boat have been sentenced to 5 years and 6 months imprisonment while the other 10 fishermen have been sentenced to 3 years and 6 months imprisonment. In addition, they have also been fined. The fishermen were held at the Pathan Prison in Myanmar.

Eearlier, the Sri Lankan Ambassador to Myanmar formally requested diplomatic intervention to obtain the release of the Sri Lankan fishermen.