According to the Indian mission in Abuja, 19 Indians kidnapped by pirates from a commercial vessel from the high seas off the western coast of Africa last month have been released while one died in their captivity, reports the Economic Times.
Following the attack on the oil tanker MT Duke on December 15, 20 crew members were abducted off the vessel.
One seaman gives up
One able seaman was evidently taken ill and died shortly after capture. Union Maritime said in a statement: “We are seeking further information from those crew members that have been released and a full investigation will be held into the AB’s demise.”
All the crew who have been released have undergone medical checks and are reported to be well, given the circumstances of their ordeal. They will be debriefed by the local authorities and then return home to their families.
India grateful to authorities
India thanked the Nigerian authorities for their assistance in the release of the abducted Indians.
“Indian Govt and Mission gave highest priority and worked with @NigeriaGov on release of 20 Indian seafarers kidnapped on 15 Dec from MV Duke. 19 were released yesterday. One sadly died in captivity in adverse conditions. Our deepest condolences. Mission assiting in speedy return,” the Indian High Commission tweeted.
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Source: The Economic Times
