The 35 men from the US-owned 197-dwt operator support vesselSeaman Guard Ohio (built 1984) were arrested in October.

AdvanFort told TradeWinds earlier they were charged with illegallybuying subsidised fuel.

The company today described the court ruling as"outrageous".

It said: "The mystifying investigation by Indianauthorities has dragged on for two months already while AdvanFort's seamen andmaritime security contractors continue to languish in despicable and barbaricconditions at Indian prisons.

"Throughout their careers and this ordeal, these menhave admirably adhered to the highest standards of professional conduct andintegrity.

"AdvanFort thanks their loved ones for their patienceand understanding as we now redouble our efforts in continuing to workaround-the-clock, 24/7 to secure their release."