Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar announced that the final three survivors of the MT Honour 25 oil tanker hijacking, Imran Ali, Husain Yousuf, and Muhammad Yasin, were on their way back home. The tanker was seized off Somalia in April, and five crew members, including three Pakistanis, were killed when Puntland forces retook the vessel last week. Dar expressed relief that the survivors would soon be reunited with their families.
The three sailors were traveling from Addis Ababa to Karachi, where they would receive support from the Pakistani government. Dar stated that Pakistan's ambassador in Ethiopia had met with the survivors and provided them with necessary assistance during their stay. The Deputy Prime Minister also thanked those who supported the efforts to secure the safe return of the crew members.
Dar emphasized Pakistan's commitment to working with international partners to combat piracy and ensure the safety of seafarers and maritime routes. He expressed sadness over the loss of three Pakistani crew members, offering condolences to their families. The incident highlights the ongoing threat of piracy in the region, with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) reporting 24 attempted or actual piracy incidents in the preceding three months.
The IMO reported that 44 seafarers were being held captive aboard three vessels at the time, including the Honour 25. IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez stated that the incidents serve as a reminder that the threat posed by piracy has not receded and requires continued vigilance and coordinated action.
The MT Honour 25 was carrying approximately 18,500 barrels of oil when it was hijacked. The incident occurred amid renewed concerns over piracy and armed robbery in the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea, some of the world's busiest maritime routes. Puntland authorities have been working to address the issue, with the recent rescue of the tanker and its crew.
The return of the survivors brings closure to a challenging ordeal for the families and the Pakistani government. Dar's statement reflects the country's commitment to protecting its citizens and contributing to global efforts to combat piracy. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of continued cooperation to address the threat posed by piracy.
As the survivors return home, the incident will likely have implications for Pakistan's maritime security policies and its collaboration with international partners. The country has taken steps to ensure the safe return of its citizens and will likely continue to play an active role in regional efforts to combat piracy.
Key points
- Pakistan's final three survivors of the Somali pirate hijacking are returning home.
- The incident highlights the ongoing threat of piracy in the region, with 24 reported incidents in the preceding three months.
- Pakistan has pledged continued cooperation with international partners to combat piracy and ensure the safety of seafarers and maritime routes.
