According to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), five seafarers are reported to have lost their lives during the rescue of the hijacked “Honour 25”. Several others were seriously injured.
According to reports, the seafarers were recently caught in the crossfire during a rescue operation in Somali waters. IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez expressed his condolences to the families, friends and fellow crew members. At the same time, he called for medical care and support to be provided to the injured.
The “Honour 25” is one of three vessels whose release was reported by the IMO. The “Seamull”, known as the “Sibu 1”, and the tanker “Eureka” were also freed during similar operations. The three vessels had been hijacked by pirates and armed robbers between April and August this year.
According to the IMO, a total of 44 seafarers were freed from the three vessels. The governments of their home countries are working with the shipowners and the relevant authorities to organise their return. Dominguez thanked the Somali government for its efforts.
22 seafarers still in captivity
According to the IMO, 22 seafarers are still being held captive on board the “Asana”, which was also hijacked this year. Dominguez urged that efforts to secure their safe release be continued. “We have joined forces before to stop piracy in this region. We must do so again, with renewed determination, targeted cooperation and the necessary resources,” said the IMO Secretary-General. Seafarers should not have to lose their lives whilst carrying out their duties.
Dominguez also emphasised the importance of the EU naval operations “Aspides” and “Atalanta” for security in the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden and the western Indian Ocean.
IMO calls for thorough risk assessments
According to its own statements, the IMO is in contact with the relevant authorities and the flag states of the affected vessels. Through the Djibouti Code of Conduct initiative, it is also supporting states in the region in developing their capabilities to ensure maritime security.
The organisation urges ships operating in the region to carry out thorough security risk assessments. Crews should not be exposed to avoidable hazards. Furthermore, the IMO refers to the implementation of the “Best Management Practices” developed by the industry and its relevant guidelines.
