Fifteen Indian fishermen from Karaikal, Tamil Nadu, who were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy last month returned home after being handed over to the Coast Guard on Wednesday, The Hindu reported.

The fishermen, along with three fishing boats, had been arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy on December 9 for allegedly fishing in Sri Lankan waters.

They were released by the Sri Lankan government three days ago and were handed over to the CG by the Sri Lankan Navy at the International Maritime Boundary Line on Wednesday afternoon.

They reached Karaikal port in the evening, Coast Guard, Karaikal Station Commandant Udhal Singh has told The Hindu over phone.

Coast Guard, Marine Police and Intelligence Bureau officials have conducted enquiries with the fishermen.

They were subsequently handed over to the Fisheries Department of Karaikal. Commandant Udhal Singh advised them not to venture into Sri Lankan waters for fishing.
(with inputs from The Hindu)