As this publication covered on March 10th, 2024, the Bangladeshi-flagged M/V Abdullah was seized by Somali pirates off the coast of Somalia, 400NM East of Mogadishu. This ship was most likely seized by pirates operating off the M/V Ruen based on the range from the coast. The M/V Ruen has been neutralized by Indian Naval Commandos, as this publication already covered.
However, we now know the pirates that seized the M/V Abdullah have contacted the parent company of the ship and are demanding 5M USD ransom for release of the 23-member crew. SR Shipping Company reported on March 18th that all crew members were safe, and the vessel was 4NM off the coast of Godobijraan, Somalia.
As of 0330 EST this morning, Kabir Group has reportedly begun negotiations directly with the pirates.
#UPDATE: Somali pirates who seized MV Abdullah, a Bangladeshi vessel, have made contact with the owning company, Kabir Group, to initiate discussions regarding the release of the captured vessel and its crews, according to the media Advisor of Kabir Group Mizanul Islam.
— Somalia Live Update (@HassanIstiila) March 21, 2024
