19 March 2008

Kidnapped crew released by Somali pirates

All crew members of the Svitzer Korsakov – kidnapped when the tugboat was boarded by pirates last month – were released yesterday. All are unharmed.

The six Russian, British and Irish crewmembers had been held by the hijackers since 1st Febuary. Owners of the vessel, Maersk owned Svitzer A/S, announced:

“Svitzer wishes to thank and acknowledge the courage, leadership and strength shown by the Master and crew members on board the tug during their ordeal.”

Somali government sources are reported as having told the BBC and several newspapers that a US$700,000 ransom was paid in return for the men’s release. Svitzer has declined to confirm or deny this, saying that any discussion of payment or negotiations could encourage other would-be attackers.

Last year pirates seized more than 25 ships in the area. Merchant vessels are advised to stay at least 200 miles from the Somali coast because of the risk of attack.