Well, this week all the hard work and determination of the men’s families finally paid off as the Chennai6 along with 29 other crew members from the Seaman Guard Ohio finally walked free from Puzhal Jail in India.

When you hear the story of what the men and their families have been through over the last 4 years it’s hard to believe. It sounds more like a fiction book than real life and that’s what makes their official acquittal this week even more, special.

After years of hell and uncertainty, finally, these innocent ex-servicemen men walked free from Jail to be reunited with their families. At present, they are still in India awaiting the return of their passports and I hope and pray this is a swift process and for the first time in four years they can finally spend Christmas at home with their loved ones.

The men were charged with illegal possession of weapons and ammunition and entering India’s territorial waters without permission

Released on bail

A judge ruled the case be dropped. However, they could not leave the country. Their passports were withheld pending an appeal by the police against this decision.

The men are told the appeal by the police was successful and they will stand

Trial begins

Judge confirmed verdict on January 11th

Found guilty of weapons offences and sentenced to five years hard labour

The men appeal the verdict and wait for a date for the appeal to be heard

Judge hearing the appeal steps down as it is too complicated and a new judge is appointed

All 35 men are given an official acquittal and released from Jail

The men being released from Puzhal prison