POLITICS & POLICY MAKING
In Karachi, Syed Muhammad Nehal Hashmi met the families of 11 Pakistani crew members who were taken hostage after an oil tanker was hijacked by pirates near the coast of Somalia last week.
During the meeting, the governor reassured the families that the government would stand by them and make every possible effort to ensure the safe return of their loved ones. He emphasised that both federal and provincial authorities are fully engaged in addressing the situation.
According to officials, the vessel was seized by armed pirates outside Pakistan’s territorial waters, complicating rescue operations. Along with the Pakistani crew, the ship’s Indonesian captain is also being held hostage.
The governor said that communication with the crew remains active and that multiple channels are being used to secure their release. He added that discussions are also ongoing with the European Union to assist in resolving the crisis.
He further noted that authorities established immediate contact with the families to address their concerns and assure them of full support during this difficult time.
Family members of the hostages expressed appreciation for the government’s swift response and said they remain hopeful that the crew will be safely recovered soon.