Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced that 11 kidnapped crew members of FWN Rapide (IMO 9320520), including her Russian captain, had been released by pirates. No other details were given. The men were reported to have been released after a ransom was paid. All of them were said to be safe.
ForestWave, manager of the attacked cargo ship, said that “the crew are currently on their way to be reunited with their loved ones. We are extremely pleased to have been conveying this good news to all the families and friends of our seafarers”, adding that “all crew have received medical checks and given the circumstances are in a relatively good condition.
ForestWave would like to thank all the relevant authorities and advisors for their help in securing the release of our valued seafarers.”
FWN Rapide was attacked by pirates early on April 21st, prior to entering Port Harcourt in Nigeria. Netherlands-based vessel manager ForestWave Navigation had said that it was in close contact with the authorities and was taking professional advice in order to secure the earliest release of those held. Four of the crew managed to evade capture.
The ship was en route from Takoradi, Ghana to Onne, Nigeria, on the way to entering Port Harcourt, when the incident occurred.
2005-built, Netherlands-flagged, 7,767 gt FWN Rapide is owned by FWN Rapide BV care of manager ForestWave Navigation BV (FWN) of Groningen, Netherlands.