KARACHI: MV-Suez, the cargo ship which was released by Somali pirates along with its crew earlier in the week after 10 months in captivity had once again come under attack on Thursday.
According to Express 24/7 correspondent, Sabin Agha, the ship, was heading towards Oman to make port when it came under attack from pirates.
A Pakistan Navy spokesperson told The Express Tribune that all reports of a navy vessel coming under attack were unconfirmed at this point. He said that at this point he can only say that navy ships are safe and sound and operating as routine.
The ship, which is being escorted by Pakistani warship, PNS Babar (Type 21 frigate), had already come under attack on Wednesday, June 15, a day after pirates released the ship and its crew.
Wasi Hasan, the ships Pakistani captain while talking to NDTV said that the crew may have to abandon the ship and hitch a ride with the PNS Babar. “The boiler in the engine room is not working, so our speed has slowed down from 15 knots to 8 knots.” He also said that there is eight tons of diesel left on board, not enough to get the Suez to the port of Salalah in Oman.
All crew is reported to be safe.
The Express Tribune understands that pirates are present in the sector from which MV-Suez is being escorted through.
After its release, PNS Babar had been providing escort to the vessel. Sailors along with Navy commandos were also on board the ship to deal with any eventuality. A navy helicopter also flies over the ship to provide close air support.
The MV Suez, owned by an Egyptian company, had been first boarded by Somali pirates in August 2010, while passing through the Gulf of Aden. Its crew of 22 people were finally released on June 14, after payments of $2.1 million were made to the hostage takers.
Once the ship makes port, the crew, comprising four Pakistanis, six Indians, one Sri Lankan and 11 Egyptians will be able to fly back to their respective countries.