Fishermen continue demonstration,demand Sri Lanka to release arrested fishermen

More than 1,000 fishermen of Pamban continued their demonstration for the third day in that town, demanding release of the 18 fishermen arrested by the Sri Lankan naval personnel on December 29 last year. S Armstrong, Pamban Nesakarankan trust president said.

The fishermen, including many women, shouted slogans against the Centre and Sri Lankan governments and sought immediate release of their colleagues, S Armstrong, Pamban Nesakarankan Trust President said.

The 18 fishermen along with their three boats were arrested by the Sri Lankan naval personnel off Katchathivu on December 29 and later lodged in a prison in Jaffna.

The fishermen also decided to observe a relay fast from January 9 if the arrested fishermen were not released by then.