MOGADISHU (Kaab TV) – The Government of Pakistan has stepped up diplomatic efforts to secure the release of Pakistani sailors being held aboard a vessel hijacked by pirates operating off the Somali coast, as negotiations continue to resolve the standoff.
According to Pakistan’s Ministry of Maritime Affairs, Maritime Affairs Minister Junaid Anwar Chaudhry held telephone discussions with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, as well as Somalia’s ambassador to Pakistan, in an effort to accelerate negotiations aimed at freeing the ship’s crew.
The oil tanker MT Honour 25, sailing under the flag of Palau, was hijacked on April 21 approximately 30 nautical miles off the coast of Puntland, Somalia. The vessel was carrying 17 crew members, including 10 Pakistani nationals.
Diplomatic sources said the tanker remains anchored near the Somali coastline while talks between the involved parties continue.
Reports indicate that the pirates initially demanded a ransom of $10 million but later reduced their demand to $4 million. Despite ongoing discussions, no agreement has yet been reached that could secure the release of the crew members.
The Somali government is also reportedly in contact with the ship’s owner as part of broader efforts to find a solution and secure the safe release of those being held hostage.
Families of the Pakistani sailors have expressed growing concern over the welfare of their relatives and urged the Pakistani government to intensify efforts to ensure their safe return.
Somali piracy became globally notorious during the 2000s, with attacks reaching their peak in 2011 when hundreds of commercial vessels were targeted along key international shipping routes.
Although international naval patrols and improved maritime security measures significantly reduced piracy threats in recent years, recent reports suggest that pirate attacks off the Somali coast may once again be increasing, raising renewed concerns for global shipping and regional security.