Issuing a statement, the Ministry states that it was still taking steps to verify the alleged incident, and initial inquires have revealed that while the vessel involved "is not registered under a Sri Lankan flag, it has an 8 member Sri Lankan crew." This is also reported to be the first successful hijack of a commerical ship by Somali pirates since 2012. The Ministry is taking action to verify the alleged incident, and initial enquiries have revealed that while the vessel involved is not registered under a Sri Lankan flag, it has a 8 member Sri Lankan crew. The Ministry continues to remain in touch with the shipping agents, concerned authorities, as well as relevant Sri Lanka Missions overseas to ascertain further information on the matter in order to ensure the safety and welfare of the Sri Lankan crew. Therefore, as and when confirmed information regarding the alleged incident becomes available, the Ministry will share information in a manner that would not be prejudicial to the safety of the crew.

Source: Sunday Times March 14, 2017 10:45 UTC