The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has raised alarm that more than 90 seafarers are now being held by pirates and armed robbers following a resurgence of piracy in the Gulf of Aden and surrounding waters.
IMO secretary-general; Arsenio Dominguez issued an urgent call for their release following reports that the Seamull had been hijacked on August 20.
The latest seizure means six vessels are now being held in the region.
Dominguez said the captive seafarers were living under constant threat and uncertainty, with some having limited access to food, fresh water, medical assistance and other essential supplies.
“I demand the immediate and unconditional release of all those being held captive,” he said.
The IMO warned that the deteriorating security situation requires renewed international attention, particularly as maritime security resources have been stretched by conflicts and attacks affecting shipping elsewhere.
Flag and coastal states have been urged to ensure vessels and crews operating in the region are adequately prepared for security risks, including through implementation of the industry’s Best Management Practices for Maritime Security and relevant IMO guidance.
The organisation is also calling for sustained international naval cooperation, arguing that coordinated naval operations remain essential to protecting merchant shipping and crews.
The IMO said it would continue supporting regional counter-piracy efforts through the Djibouti Code of Conduct and its Jeddah Amendment, while Dominguez plans to raise the situation across the United Nations system and with governments.
