VIZHINJAM: A court has released 56 Indian fishermen, including two Keralites, who were arrested in Seychelles in East Africa. The fishermen are expected to return home today. The efforts of NORKA, the Indian High Commission and the World Malayalee Federation paved the way for the speedy release of the fishermen. The fishermen, who had set out in five boats, were arrested by the Seychelles Coast Guard for violating the maritime boundary while fishing.

Out of the 61 persons who appeared before the Seychelles Supreme Court, boat captains Maria Sekhar, Jerin Raju, Sunil Anthony and Kukip were remanded in custody for 14 days. The World Malayalee Federation officials said that 56 fishermen, including the two Keralites Thomas and Johnny, were unconditionally released in the case. World Malayalee Federation Seychelles Co-ordinator Joyce Abraham said that the imprisoned captains will be produced in court again on April 5. Federation officials Bibin Varghese and PA Suneesh said steps were being taken to repatriate the fishermen on an Indian Air Force flight.