12 Indian fishermen apprehended by Sri Lankan navy

At least 12 Indian fishermen from southern state of Tamil Nadu were apprehended along with their fishing boats by Sri Lankan navy, India's state-run All India Radio (AIR) said Tuesday.

The fishermen from coastal town of Rameswaram were arrested by the Sri Lankan navy Monday night for allegedly crossing the international maritime boundary line.

"The Lankan navy apprehended 12 fishermen along with their fishing boats last night," broadcaster AIR said.

According to S Emerit, president of fisheries association, the fishermen were detained while fishing off the Katchathivu islet and later taken to Talaimannar.

Fishermen of two countries are often jailed for accidentally crossing into each other's territory. The fishermen from two countries traverse poorly defined boundary in the international waters as most fishing boats lack technologies to locate exact positions.

Last week 80 Indian fishermen were released by Sri Lankan authorities.

(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)