Navy Releases Hijacked Vessel To Owners

The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Delta, said that it had released a vessel, MT NORTE, which was hijacked by pirates on August 13.
The Navy also said that it handed over the vessel to the owner, Orion Marine.
The Commander of NNS Delta, Cdr. Mohammed Garba, said in a statement on Wednesday in Warri, Delta state that the Chief of Naval Staff directed the release of the vessel to the owner.
He said the vessel was released following the completion of investigation by the command.

The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Delta, said that it had released a vessel, MT NORTE, which was hijacked by pirates on August 13.
The Navy also said that it handed over the vessel to the owner, Orion Marine.
The Commander of NNS Delta, Cdr. Mohammed Garba, said in a statement on Wednesday in Warri, Delta state that the Chief of Naval Staff directed the release of the vessel to the owner.
He said the vessel was released following the completion of investigation by the command.
“It is pertinent to state that investigation relating to the hijack of the vessel has been concluded by NNS Delta.
“Therefore, in this regard, the Chief of Naval Staff has directed the release of the vessel to the owners with immediate effect,’’ Garba said.
The vessel and its crew were rescued on Aug. 17.
The Navy said the operation was carried out by five naval gunboats and NNS OBULA from the Central and Western Naval Commands.
The Navy also said that 12 out of the 16 pirates that hijacked the vessel were killed in a gun duel while three were arrested.