Tuesday March 19, 2024
FILE - The bulk carrier of SR Shipping, a concern of Kabir Group, was on its way to Al Hamriyah Port in Dubai from Maputo Port in Mozambique. It was carrying some 55,000 tonnes of thermal coal. [File photo: TBP]
MOGADISHU, (HOL) — MV Abdullah, hijacked by Somali pirates, remains anchored off the coast as its owner, SR Shipping, and Bangladesh government officials have ruled out a rescue mission, prioritizing the safety of the crew. This development follows statements from Somali authorities about their plans to retake MV Abdullah with support from international partners, including the European Maritime Forces and the Indian Navy.
Despite the situation, all crew members are reported safe.
During a TV talk show, Bangladesh Rear Admiral (Ret.) Khorshed Alam of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs maritime unit emphasized the decision to avoid armed intervention, citing the high risk of casualties and the agreed-upon ransom payment as primary reasons. He observed that few accounts of armed operations had been used to successfully free sailors from such situations.
SR Shipping's CEO, Meherul Karim, reinforced this stance, stating the crew's safety as their highest priority and noting ongoing efforts to initiate contact with the pirates through international channels.
However, the company received an update from the ship's captain via satellite phone, confirming all crew members were in good condition and treated well by the pirates.
The ship, which is carrying 55,000 tonnes of coal, has been securely anchored four miles off Puntland's Godob Jiraan coast since it was captured 600 nautical miles from shore over a week ago. According to naval analysts, the pirates are waiting for the ship and owner to respond, as well as assessing the vessel's value and the owner's financial capabilities for ransom.
Drawing on the 2010 MV Jahan Moni incident, Bangladeshi sailors recall a 26-day wait before the pirates issued a ransom demand, a tactic used to pressure the shipowner and sailors' families. "The drawn-out negotiations continue to apply pressure," he said.
A new group of 11 armed pirates reportedly took control of the ship.
On Saturday, the Indian Navy successfully freed the crew of the MV Ruen, a vessel hijacked by Somali pirates in December 2023. During the 40-hour standoff, 35 pirates were arrested after surrendering, and the 17-member crew was rescued