International Maritime Organization (IMO) Secretary-General, Arsenio Dominguez has expressed deep sorrow over the reported deaths of five seafarers during an operation to free the hijacked vessel HONOUR 25 in Somali waters.
The incident occurred on 29 September in the Gulf of Aden region, as security forces carried out a rescue operation to release the vessel and its crew from pirate captivity. Several other seafarers were reportedly seriously injured during the operation.
The HONOUR 25 was one of three vessels released this week after being held captive by pirates and armed robbers.
The other vessels were SEAMULL, also known as SIBU 1, and MT EUREKA. The three ships were seized between April and August 2026.
It is troubling to have to make these statements so often, and even more difficult to convey in words how distressing it is to continuously hear that seafarers are losing their lives simply for doing their jobs.
“I am deeply saddened to learn of the tragic loss of five seafarers during the rescue of the HONOUR 25 on 29 September, in Somali waters. I offer my heartfelt condolences to their families, friends and fellow crew members”, Dominguez said
The IMO Secretary-General also urged those responsible for the care and welfare of the injured seafarers to ensure they receive the necessary medical treatment and psychological support as they recover from the traumatic experience.
The remaining crew members of the HONOUR 25 were freed alongside the crews of the SEAMULL and MT EUREKA, which were also held captive.
Source: Tide news
