IMO reports five seafarer deaths during rescue of hijacked HONOUR 25
Five seafarers died in crossfire during the rescue of the hijacked vessel HONOUR 25, the IMO said, as 44 crew from three ships were freed and 22 remain captive on ASANA.
The story in focus
Five seafarers reportedly died during the rescue of the hijacked vessel HONOUR 25 in Somali waters on 29 September, the IMO said. The operation freed the remaining crew, while two other vessels, SEAMULL (SIBU 1) and MT EUREKA, were also released this week, bringing the total freed to 44.
- Five crew members reportedly died in the crossfire of the HONOUR 25 rescue on 29 September in Somali waters.
- Three vessels were freed this week after being seized between April and August 2026, releasing 44 seafarers in total.
- The IMO said 22 seafarers remain in captivity onboard the ASANA and called for their safe release.
Deaths and injuries during rescue
The IMO Secretary-General, Arsenio Dominguez, said five seafarers died during the operation to free the HONOUR 25 on 29 September in Somali waters, and several others were seriously injured. He offered condolences to their families, friends and fellow crew members and urged those responsible for their care to ensure they receive treatment and support.
Dominguez said the remaining crew of the HONOUR 25 had been freed. He thanked the Government of Somalia for its efforts in securing the releases.
Three vessels freed, 44 seafarers released
The HONOUR 25 was one of three vessels released this week, along with the SEAMULL (also known as SIBU 1) and the MT EUREKA, which had been held captive since being seized between April and August 2026.
In total, 44 seafarers were freed from the three vessels. Their governments are working with shipowners and relevant authorities to arrange repatriation.
The IMO said 22 seafarers remain in captivity onboard the ASANA, which was also taken hostage earlier this year. Dominguez called for continued efforts to secure their safe release.
Calls for renewed cooperation
Dominguez said piracy in the region had been stopped before and must be stopped again with renewed resolve, targeted cooperation and required resources. He highlighted maritime security discussions at the United Nations General Assembly and in Brussels, and called for new initiatives to be brought to the IMO.
The IMO said it continues to engage with flag States and to strengthen regional maritime security capacity through the Djibouti Code of Conduct. It urged vessels in the region to conduct thorough security risk assessments and implement industry Best Management Practices and relevant IMO guidance.
How many seafarers were freed from the three vessels and how many remain captive?
A total of 44 seafarers were freed from the HONOUR 25, SEAMULL (SIBU 1) and MT EUREKA. The IMO said 22 seafarers remain in captivity onboard the ASANA.
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