The Chair of the Djibouti Code of Conduct/Jeddah Amendment (DCoC/JA) has urgently called for international assistance amid alarming reports regarding the crew of the hijacked tanker MT HONOUR 25. This vessel, flying the flag of the Republic of Palau, was seized by pirates on April 24, 2026, and the 17 crew members have been held captive for over two months. Their situation has become dire, with five crew members, including the ship’s Master, suffering from serious health complications. The crew’s rations have been drastically reduced to rice, and the onboard water is unsafe for consumption, exacerbating their fears for safety.
The Master reported an incident where the pirates guarding the ship clashed with a rival group attempting to approach, leaving the crew in a precarious situation. The Chair also expressed concern for the crews of two other vessels, the SWARD and MV EUREKA, who are enduring similar harsh conditions. The DCoC/JA emphasized the need for immediate action from the Federal Government of Somalia, shipowners, and international allies to secure the crew’s release.
Additionally, the Chair highlighted the importance of providing long-term medical care and psychological support for seafarers affected by piracy. The DCoC/JA warned that while piracy in the Western Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden has been suppressed, it remains a persistent threat, urging maritime stakeholders to adhere to Best Management Practices for safety.
