Somali Pirates Release Singapore Tanker and Crew, Hold Four Hostage

Chemical tanker, the MT Gemini, has been released by Somali pirates. The Glory Ship Management (Singapore) owned vessel is almost 30,000-tonnes and was carrying crude palm oil from Indonesia when it was hijacked 215 days ago off of Africa’s east coast.

However, the pirates have broken an agreement to release the entire crew. They have kept four South Korean seamen, including the ship’s captain, in captivity ashore and are believed to be in Somalia. Therefore, 21 out of the 25 crew members have been freed.

The crew included Indonesians, Chinese nationals, South Koreans and Myanmar natives. All released are being reported as in good health and will be expedited to their homes. Efforts to rescue those still in hostage are ongoing by South Korea’s Foreign Ministry and Glory Ship Management. It is South Korea’s firm position to not negotiate with pirates, however.