Pirates have released an oil tanker and its crew of 22 Indian nationals after taking it captive off the coast of West Africa.
The Marine Express went missing off the coast of Benin in the Gulf of Guinea last week, carrying around 13,500 tonnes of oil.
Anglo Eastern, the vessel’s managing company has confirmed the vessel is now back under the command of the captain and grew.
The firm tweeted: “We are delighted to report that the MT Marine Express, which was hijacked by pirates on Feb 1, is now back under the command of the captain & crew since ~04:00 SG time today. All crew members are reported to be safe & well & the cargo intact. We thank you all for your well wishes”
The Benin and Nigerian navies were asked to support the search for the ship as the area has become a known spot for piracy.
India’s minister of external affairs, Sushma Swaraj tweeted: “I am happy to inform that Merchant Ship Marine Express with 22 Indian nationals on board has been released.
“We thanks Governments of Nigeria and Benin for their help and support.”