Distress audio of Pakistani hostage surfaces after Somali pirates seize tanker

KARACHI: Somali pirates have seized an oil tanker off the coast of Somalia, taking more than 10 Pakistani crew members hostage, including sailors from Karachi, shipping sources and families said.

The vessel, identified as “Honour 25”, was reportedly boarded on April 21 and remains under pirate control, with 11 Pakistani crew members believed to be on board.

An audio message purportedly recorded by one of the hostages, Amin Bin Shams, has circulated widely on social media, in which he tearfully informs his father about the situation.

“Dad, we have been captured by pirates. This is my last voice message. I don’t know if I will be able to speak to you again because they are taking us to be killed,” he says in the recording.

In the message, he also asks for forgiveness and urges his family to stay strong.

“Forgive me for any mistake I made. Take care of Ayesha and the children. Stay strong. Goodbye,” he says, breaking down in tears.

His father, speaking to a local television channel, said the family had sent their only son abroad for work.

“He is our only child. He went for employment, and this is what has happened. We appeal to the Government of Pakistan to bring him back safely,” he said.

The hostage’s wife, Ayesha, said her husband had informed them that the crew was being threatened with aerial firing and was being taken to an unknown location.

“I have not even properly met my child yet, and I don’t think I will ever see him again,” she said quoting he husband.

Shipping sources said the “Honour 25” was attacked and seized by pirates on April 21. Efforts were reportedly under way by Indonesian authorities to negotiate the release of the ship’s Indonesian captain.

However, sources said Pakistan’s Ministry of Maritime Affairs had not been able to establish contact with the crew, while the manning agency that sent the vessel has also remained silent.

Family members of the Pakistani crew have urged the government to take urgent steps for their safe recovery, expressing concern over the lack of official communication.