Hijacked Chinese Fishing Vessel Freed Off Somali Coast
A Chinese-owned fishing vessel and its 18-member crew, hijacked off the Somali coast in November, have been freed, according to a statement from the Chinese Embassy in Somalia. The rescue operation concluded successfully on Monday following extensive efforts by the Chinese government in coordination with Somali federal and Puntland regional authorities.
The vessel was taken near Xaafuun district in Puntland, with pirates demanding a $10 million ransom. It remains unclear whether any payment was made.
The Chinese government condemned the hijacking, citing threats to crew safety and international navigation security. “China will continue to firmly safeguard the lawful rights of its citizens and enterprises overseas,” the embassy stated.
This incident highlights ongoing maritime security concerns in Somali waters, despite a significant decline in piracy since its peak in 2011, when over 160 attacks were reported. The decline is largely attributed to enhanced naval patrols by U.S. and allied forces.