Aug 06, Colombo: The 37 Chinese fishermen detained by the Sri Lankan Navy Sunday night have been released, China's official news agency Xinhua has reported.

Earlier the Chinese Embassy in Colombo said the fishermen are safe in their trawlers and the Embassy has called the Sri Lankan authorities to deal with the arrest according to the law, ascertain the facts in the case and release the Chinese fishermen as soon as possible.

The 37 Chinese fishermen along with two Sri Lankans were detained by the Sri Lankan Navy last night for illegally poaching in Sri Lankan waters.

The quick release has averted a potential conflict situation with Sri Lanka's most trusted ally.