Five residents of Karachi are among 11 Pakistani crew members taken hostage by Somali pirates after a vessel was hijacked in a recent maritime incident, as reported by local media.
The ship, identified as “Owner 25,” was seized near the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait in the Gulf of Aden off the Somali coast. The crew included an Indonesian captain along with Pakistani nationals.
Government assures action for safe release
Sindh Governor Nehal Hashmi said the government has not abandoned the hostages and is actively working to secure their release.
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Speaking at a press conference, he said families of the victims had approached the Governor House and were assured full support.
“We are not silent on this matter; efforts are ongoing,” he stated.
The governor said he has held discussions with Junaid Anwar Chaudhry and other senior officials, including the foreign secretary. He added that Pakistan’s embassy is coordinating with relevant stakeholders and has also reached out to European Union bodies for support in resolving the situation.
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Officials further stated that the Foreign Ministry is in contact with Somali authorities to ensure the safe recovery of the crew.
Families report distressing conditions
Relatives of the hostages told reporters that they last spoke to their loved ones on Friday, describing their condition as extremely difficult.
“They were in great distress and did not even have food,” one family member said, adding that the captors were armed.
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Families urged authorities to expedite efforts, saying they would not find peace until the crew safely returns home.
Maritime routes near the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait are considered highly sensitive due to piracy threats and geopolitical tensions.
In recent years, incidents involving Somali pirates have resurfaced, posing risks to international shipping and crew safety..
