11/02/2013

Pirates Take Hostages From British Ship

Three crewmen have been taken hostage in an attack by pirates on a British ship off the west coast of Africa, the BBC has reported.

The victims are a Romanian and two Russians. They were kidnapped when pirates took control of the Esther C cargo ship in the Gulf of Guinea.

The hostages were taken between the Cameroonian port of Douala and the port of Malabo in Equatorial Guinea.

The pirates stole personal possessions from the crew and then departed with the hostages last Thursday evening.

The Isle of Wight-based Carisbrooke Shipping, which owns the vessel, is said to be doing everything it can to secure the release of the three hostages.

The nine remaining Filipino crew are reported to be safe, while the families of all crewmembers have been informed of the situation.

The cargo ship is reported to be continuing its voyage, while another ship owned by the firm has been sent to the region to offer assistance.

Russia's foreign ministry has confirmed two of the hostages as Russian citizens.

(IT)

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