Egyptian sailors freed after 151 days arrive in Mogadishu ahead of return to Cairo
Eight Egyptian sailors released after over five months in captivity have arrived in Mogadishu, where they were received by Egypt’s ambassador to Somalia.
Key Takeaways
AIEight Egyptian sailors arrived at Mogadishu airport after being released following more than five months in captivity. They were received by Mohamed Salah, Egypt’s ambassador to Somalia, before being transferred to the embassy under tight security and provided with accommodation, in preparation for their departure to Cairo with the ambassador.
The sailors’ return to Egypt was overseen on the instructions of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and followed up by Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that ensuring the sailors’ safety and expediting their release had been top priorities throughout their detention.
Nader Zaki, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said the Egyptian embassy in Mogadishu maintained ongoing contact with the sailors and their families since the start of the ordeal, while also coordinating with officials from Somalia’s federal government, Puntland authorities, and the ship’s owners to monitor developments in the case.
He added that the Egyptian embassy in Yemen also communicated with local authorities as part of efforts to follow up on the situation, noting that the ministry’s focus throughout had been on safeguarding the sailors and securing their swift release.
The foreign ministry spokesperson extended his congratulations to the sailors’ families on their safe return.
Last Wednesday, Egypt’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the release of the eight sailors, who had been held aboard a ship off the coast of Puntland since May 2, following more than five months in captivity.
The incident dates back to early May, when the oil tanker MT Eureka was hijacked by armed Somali groups while sailing off the Yemeni coast. Twelve crew members were taken hostage, including eight Egyptians and four Indians.
For 151 days, the sailors’ families anxiously awaited news amid uncertainty over their fate, as negotiations for their release repeatedly stalled due to disputes over the ransom amount.