CAIRO (Kaab TV) – The Egyptian government has announced that it is working closely with Somali authorities to secure the swift release of Egyptian sailors who were reportedly hijacked off the Somali coast, amid growing concerns over maritime security in the Horn of Africa.
According to Egyptian officials, Cairo has been in continuous contact with the Somali Federal Government and relevant security agencies following reports that the sailors were taken hostage while operating in waters near Somalia. The Egyptian Foreign Ministry stated that efforts are underway through diplomatic and security channels to ensure the safe and immediate return of the crew.
In a statement, Egyptian authorities emphasized that the safety of the sailors remains a top priority, adding that coordination with Somalia has intensified in recent days to gather intelligence and facilitate negotiations aimed at ending the ordeal peacefully.
“Egyptian authorities are maintaining high-level communication with Somali authorities to ensure the safety and security of the Egyptian crew members and to work toward their swift release,” Ministry of foreign affairs of Egypt.
Somali officials have also confirmed cooperation with Egypt, noting that security forces are investigating the incident and tracking the whereabouts of the hijackers.
Authorities in Somalia said they are committed to combating piracy and armed criminal activity in the region, which has periodically threatened international shipping routes.
The hijacking has renewed concerns over maritime insecurity along parts of the Somali coastline, despite years of international naval patrols that significantly reduced piracy incidents in the region. Analysts warn that economic hardship, illegal fishing, and weak coastal enforcement continue to create conditions that allow armed groups to operate.
Families of the Egyptian sailors have appealed to both governments to accelerate rescue efforts and ensure the captives are returned safely.
Egyptian media reported that officials are maintaining direct communication with relatives of the crew and providing updates on the ongoing efforts.
No official details have yet been released regarding the exact number of sailors involved, the identity of the hijackers, or whether ransom demands have been made.
The incident comes as Egypt and Somalia continue strengthening bilateral relations, particularly in the areas of security cooperation, regional stability, and maritime protection in the Red Sea and the Horn of Africa.