Police in Somalia’s semi‑autonomous Puntland region announced that pirates killed five crew members aboard the hijacked fuel tanker MT Honour 25. The vessel, seized in April, was transporting 18,500 barrels of oil when it was taken over by armed men.
Rescue operation and casualties
Security forces retook the tanker on Tuesday, detaining sixteen suspected pirates. At least eleven suspects remain at large. The Puntland Maritime Police Force reported that the victims included three Pakistani nationals, one Myanmar national, and one Indian national. Four additional crew members – three Pakistanis and one Indian – were injured during the operation.
International reaction
Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed deep sadness over the loss of its citizens. The ministry said the tragedy underscores the dangers faced by maritime workers in the region.
Broader anti‑piracy efforts
The rescue follows a series of anti‑piracy actions along Puntland’s coastline, including a May operation that secured the oil tanker MT Eureka after pirates ran it aground. Puntland authorities say they will continue pursuing those involved in piracy and other maritime crimes, seeking cooperation with international maritime security partners.
Context of piracy resurgence
Authorities note a renewed concern about a resurgence of piracy off Somalia’s coast after years of declining attacks. The incidents highlight the ongoing challenges of securing vital shipping lanes in the Horn of Africa.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
