All 22 Indian Nationals Safe After Pirate Attacks in Yemen and Somalia
Indian authorities have confirmed the safety of 22 Indian crew members who were aboard two commercial ships that were captured by pirates in separate incidents off the coasts of Yemen and Somalia. This assurance came as officials monitored the ongoing situation closely.
On August 20, the tanker MT Sibu 1, which was transporting oil products, was attacked by armed pirates in the Gulf of Aden, about 30 nautical miles from Yemen’s coastline. The ship’s crew consisted of 20 members, including 16 Indians.
In another event, on August 17, the MV Lutuf, a ship registered in Cameroon, faced a similar fate off the Puntland coast of Somalia. This vessel had a crew of 10, out of which six were Indian nationals.
The Indian High Commission in Kenya has proactively engaged with Somali officials to gather updates about the Indian crew members on both ships. Reports indicate that all Indian nationals are safe and unharmed.
Randhir Jaiswal, a spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs, stated that the ministry is in continuous contact with relevant authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of the crew members. The Indian government is keeping a close watch on the situation and ensuring that necessary measures are taken for their protection.
As the investigation continues, families of the crew members can breathe a sigh of relief knowing their loved ones are safe during these unsettling incidents at sea.
