The Bangladesh-flagged vessel MV Abdullah, released by Somali pirates on 14 April reportedly after a payment of $5 million ransom, has reached Kutubdia anchorage in Cox's Bazar.
Mizanul Islam, Media Advisor of KSRM Group, the owner of the ship, confirmed the matter to Banglanews.
He said the ship anchored at Kutubdia anchorage safely at 6:00pm and all sailors are safe.
"23 sailors are scheduled to arrive in the city on Tuesday," He added.
Earlier, on 12 March, the vessel was hijacked with its 23 Bangladeshi crew members on board by armed Somali pirates in the Indian Ocean. The bulk carrier was heading to the Al Hamriyah Port from Maputo Port in Mozambique, carrying 55,000 tonnes of thermal coal.
On 5 December 2010, Somali pirates seized another Bangladeshi vessel, MV Jahan Moni, which belonged to the same company. After enduring 99 days in captivity, the pirates eventually released the vessel, along with its 25 crew members and the wife of the chief engineer, Matiul Mawla.
The crew members finally returned to Chattogram on 21 March 2011, bringing an end to the uncertainty that had plagued their loved ones for months.
BDST: 2100 HRS, MAY 13, 2024
MSK
