Arsenio Dominguez is the Secretary-General of IMO. Image Credit: IMO

Five seafarers were killed and several others injured during an operation to free the hijacked ship Honour 25 in Somali waters in the Gulf of Aden, according to the IMO.

The seafarers died during the rescue operation on September 29, Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General of IMO said in a press release issued on Friday.

“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,” Dominguez said.

“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,” he said, offering his condolences to their families, friends and fellow crew members.

Several other seafarers were seriously injured during the operation.

“I will keep urging all those responsible for their care and welfare to ensure they receive the treatment and support they need as they recover from this traumatic ordeal,” Dominguez said.

The Honour 25 was one of three vessels freed this week after being held captive by pirates and armed robbers.

The Seamull, also known as Sibu 1, and Eureka were also released.

In total, 44 seafarers were freed from the three vessels.

“There is some relief that the remaining crew of the HONOUR 25 have been freed,” Dominguez said.
However, 22 seafarers remain in captivity aboard the Asana, which was seized earlier this year.

“We must not forget the 22 seafarers who remain in captivity onboard the ASANA,” he said. “Every effort must continue to secure their safe release.”

Dominguez also called for renewed international action against piracy in the region, saying seafarers should not have to risk their lives while working at sea.

“We have come together to stop piracy in this region before. We must do it again – with renewed resolve, targeted cooperation and the required resources,” he said.

The IMO urged vessels operating in the Western Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden to conduct thorough security risk assessments and follow industry Best Management Practices and relevant IMO guidance.