Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. Indonesia is negotiating directly with Somali hijackers to secure the release of four Indonesian crew members of MT Honour 25, Minister of Foreign Sugiono confirmed on Wednesday (20/5/2026).

“We have communicated, including directly with the hijackers,” he said, explaining that the Foreign Ministry is working with Indonesian embassies in Nairobi, Islamabad, and Karachi to maximize efforts for the crew’s safety.

The vessel was hijacked on 22 April 2026 near Hafun, northeast Somalia, with 16 crew members, including four Indonesians from South Sulawesi, West Java, and Central Java. Officials said the Indonesians remain in good condition, with logistics supplied and salaries paid, according to antaranews.com.

Coordination continues with Somali authorities, community leaders, and business stakeholders to ensure safe release. The Foreign Ministry also confirmed measures are being taken domestically to prevent similar incidents in the future.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)