A Muslim farmer who was abducted by a group of armed LTTE cadres from the general area of Elephant Island, about 4 1/2 km. South of Trincomalee town on February 5, 2002 along with seven other farmers was released on Friday, the government said on Monday.

Six of them were released the same day after warning them against a promised payment of Rs. 1000 from each to the LTTE organization in return.

K. A. Sahayih in Safinagar, Muttur who was held back was asked to pay a sum of Rs. 150,000 for his release.

However, K. A. Sahayih was released on February 8 when his wife and children visited Rakkuli area where he was being detained.