Ten jailed Indian fishermen to be deported

Ten Indian fishermen, serving prison sentences for possessing explosive materials while fishing in Sri Lanka's territorial waters, will be deported back to India in two groups, officials said yesterday.

The first batch of five Indian fishermen, arrested by the Navy in 2006, were released from jail earlier this week and are expected to be deported by Monday, diplomatic sources said.

"These fishermen, who have spent nearly two years in jail, will be handed over to the Indian authorities. They will in turn send them back to India via the Bandaranaike International Airport," an official said.

Meanwhile, another group of five fishermen arrested by the Navy a few months ago for allegedly possessing explosive powders were also to be released as per the orders of the Mannar district court.

According to officials, these fishermen were arrested along with 18 others.

"The others were released immediately, while these five were held as some explosive powders were found in their boats. They were ordered to pay a fine of Rs. 2,500 and will be released soon," the official said.

Sri Lankan authorities usually hand over Indian fishermen to the Indian Coast Guard in mid sea, but those convicted in Sri Lankan courts have to face the deportation procedures.