Happy Ending to the Algerian Sailors Kidnapped in Somalia

The 25 sailors who were kidnapped by Somali pirates in January, were released Thursday morning, spokesman for Algeria Foreign Ministry, Amar Belani said in a statement.

“We are glad to announce the liberation of the 25 crew members of bulk carrier MV Blida who were captured by Somali pirates,” Mr Belani said in the statement.

The officer indicated that the bulk carrier which is currently in the high sea, is secured by international navy forces operating in the region under orders of the United Nations,” adding that “it would take 3 days for the bulk carrier to reach the port of Mombasa in Kenya.”

Spokesman for the Algerian Foreign Ministry further confirmed that the North African nation will make sure that the pirates who stand behind this kidnapping to be sued and tried by competent judicial bodies. 

No Ransom Paid

However, Nacereddine Mansouri, executive manager of the International Bulk Carriers (IBC), which rents MV Blida bulk carrier, admitted that no ransom has been paid for the release of the kidnapped crew members.

Mr Mansouri told APS news agency that “There was no question to pay any ransom for the liberation of the hostages. The position of Algeria in this regard is firm and unequivocal.”

He further indicated that the Algerian sailors are due to arrive home as by next week.

The MV Blida bulk carrier was subject to hijacking in the high seas while heading to the port of Mombasa, in Kenya.

The MV Blida carried 27 elements, including 17 Algerian sailors. Two Algerians and an Ukrainian were already released in 12 October.