(Web Desk) – An oil tanker has been hijacked by suspected pirates near Somalia, with 11 Pakistani crew members reportedly among those taken hostage, according to shipping sources.
The vessel, identified as Owner 25, was attacked on April 21 by armed pirates who boarded and seized control of the ship in waters near the Horn of Africa, a region long known for maritime security risks.
Sources said communication with the Pakistani crew has not been established so far. Authorities at the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and the Directorate of Ports have reportedly been unable to reach the vessel, while the shipping agency involved has also remained silent.
Family members of the crew, speaking to local media, expressed concern over the situation and called on the government to take urgent steps for their safe return. They also stated that negotiations were underway through Indonesian channels for the release of the ship’s Indonesian captain.
Maritime security incidents off the Somali coast have increased concerns among global shipping operators, especially involving oil tankers and commercial vessels passing through key international sea routes.
Authorities are expected to coordinate with international partners to secure the release of the crew and resolve the hijacking situation.
