Piracy Threat Grows as Over 90 Seafarers Held in Gulf of Aden

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More than 90 seafarers are being held by pirates and armed robbers in the Gulf of Aden and nearby waters as piracy resurges in the region, Splash 247 reports, citing the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez called for the immediate release of all captive seafarers following the reported hijacking of the Seamull on August 20. The latest incident brings the number of vessels being held in the region to six.

The IMO says the crews face constant threats and uncertainty, with some having limited access to food, fresh water and medical care. The organisation is urging flag and coastal states to strengthen security measures for ships operating in the area. It also stressed the need for continued international naval cooperation to protect merchant vessels and their crews.

The IMO will continue its counter-piracy work through the Djibouti Code of Conduct and its Jeddah Amendment. Dominguez also plans to raise the issue with governments and across the UN system.

Global News

IMO

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