The word is that the instruction to fire the pilots came from 'above'!
As a mistake is a mistake, that suggestion was politely rejected in favour of a temporay demotion for the captain and a 'warning letter' for the FO.
However, a warning letter while on probation normally means 'the end' and word is the FO mouthed a lot of grief to the fleet (not sure what that means?) and lost the sympathy vote.
He may be terminated but is currently under suspension.
GB