Somali pirates have hijacked an oil tanker off the coast of Somalia, taking its crew hostage. The incident has raised serious concerns in Pakistan as 11 Pakistani crew members are among those held.
The vessel, identified as the Honour 25 (also reported as Owner 25), was seized on April 21, 2026. It was attacked about 30 nautical miles off Somalia’s northeastern coast near the towns of Xaafun and Bander Beyla in the Puntland region. The tanker was carrying around 18,500 barrels of fuel and heading toward Mogadishu.
A total of 17 crew members were on board. Reports say the group includes 10 to 11 Pakistanis, four Indonesians, one Indian, one Sri Lankan, and one from Myanmar. The captain is believed to be Indonesian. No injuries have been reported so far. The ship is now anchored close to the Somali shore under pirate control.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry took immediate notice of the hijacking. He asked for a detailed report and directed all concerned agencies to speed up rescue efforts. The Ministry of Maritime Affairs said it is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with the Foreign Office, Pakistan Navy, and Somali authorities.
Pakistani officials are working on diplomatic channels and other possible measures to secure the safe release of the crew. Families of the sailors are worried and waiting for updates.
This hijacking has once again highlighted the threat of piracy in the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden region. Pakistan is making every effort to bring its citizens home safely.
