Overview
- The fishermen from Mandapam were intercepted near Neduntheevu/Katchatheevu for an alleged boundary crossing while on a mechanised boat.
- The seized vessel, registered as IND-TN-11-MM-96 and owned by A. Joseph, was taken along with the crew to the Kankesanthurai naval camp for questioning.
- After initial custody, the Sri Lankan Navy handed the trio to the Sri Lankan Coast Guard and the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources.
- A magistrate has ordered the three to be held in remand until January 7, according to court directions reported on Sunday.
- Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has pressed New Delhi for intervention, as fishermen’s groups cite mounting hardship; two days earlier, the Indian Coast Guard facilitated the repatriation of four Indian fishermen and one boat at the IMBL.