According to sources, the Indian government, through its Missions in Equatorial Guinea and Nigeria, and in bilateral meetings, took up the matter with the respective foreign authorities at various levels. They were pressed for an early resolution of the issue and repatriation of the India
The 16 sailors, who had faced accusations of oil theft by Nigerian authorities, arrived at Kochi Airport in Kerala after undergoing trials and reaching a settlement.
Nigeria released Indian sailors, who were detained last year in Equatorial Guinea and later in Nigeria, and warned them to carefully conduct their operations and maritime-related activities within extant regulations, according to the statement released by the Nigerian Navy.
The Chief Officer from MT Heroic Idun, who is among 16 Indian sailors detained in Equatorial Guinea, said that they "will be forcefully taken by arranging the tug boats".