The crew of the Bangladeshi bulk carrier MV Abdullah has finally returned home to Bangladesh after a terrifying experience at the hands of Somali pirates.
The vessel, which was hijacked off the coast of Puntland in March, arrived safely in Chittagong on Monday evening (May 13, 2024), carrying all 23 members of its crew.
The MV Abdullah was on a regular voyage from Mozambique to the United Arab Emirates, carrying a large quantity of coal, when pirates attacked it in the waters off Somalia.
The crew and ship were held captive for 33 days while the pirates, shipowner, and insurer negotiated a ransom.
According to reports, the pirates demanded and collected a $5 million ransom payment for the hostages’ release, which equates to around $220,000 for each crew member.
Despite the stress and unpredictability that they faced, the crew remained calm and courageous throughout the incident.
The crew members’ families and loved ones welcomed them back to Bangladesh with tears of happiness and warm embraces.
The moment at the Chittagong port reflected everyone’s joy and gratitude.
Crew members told reporters about the fear and worry they felt while in captivity.
“Every moment was a nightmare,” said Chief Engineer A.S.M Saifuzzaman, referring to the continuous fear of violence from the heavily armed pirates.
The hijacking’s successful conclusion shows the region’s persistent challenges from maritime piracy despite international naval forces’ coordinated efforts to prevent such threats.
The return of Somali piracy in recent months has prompted concerns about the security of maritime channels and the safety of seafarers.
Bangladeshi officials, as well as representatives from the port administration and the shipping firm, greeted the returning crew members warmly.
The CEO of SR Shipping, who owns the MV Abdullah, verified the incident’s settlement and expressed gratitude for the crew’s safe return.
While the crew members’ journey was filled with risk and uncertainty, their safe return home was a victory.
