Indians have staged several protests against the killing of the unarmed fishermen off the southern coast of Kerala.
According to Italian military sources, the fishermen were mistaken for pirates.
“Our waterfront is not infested by pirates. So it is an unpardonable crime to shoot innocent fishermen thinking they are pirates,” said Indian Shipping Minister GK Vasan.
On February 15, the Italian ship Enrica Lexie opened fire against the fishermen’s boat off the coast of Kerala, killing Ajesh Binki, 25, and Gelastine, 45. Latore Massimiliano and Salvatore Girone have been charged with murder.
Italy says that the soldiers should not be prosecuted in India because the tanker was traveling under an Italian flag in international waters when the shooting occurred.
The recent incident has contributed to growing tensions between India and Italy.
SZH/JR
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