ISLAMABAD: An oil tanker was attacked and hijacked by pirates off the coast of Somalia, with 11 Pakistani crew members taken hostage, according to an official statement.
Authorities said efforts to ensure the safe recovery of the Pakistani crew have been intensified. Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, has sought a detailed report on the incident and directed relevant departments to make the rescue operation more effective.
The statement added that the Ministry of Maritime Affairs remains in constant coordination with concerned institutions and is closely monitoring the situation. The ministry has also requested the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to initiate immediate diplomatic engagement.
Officials confirmed that attempts are underway to establish contact with the government of Somalia to secure the early release of the crew, while international cooperation is also being pursued.
