The European Union (EU) and the Indian Navy recently proposed conducting a rescue operation for the smuggled ship MV Abdullah, which has been seized by Somali pirates in the Indian Ocean. However, both the Bangladesh government and the ship's owner declined this offer outright.

As of now, no final decision has been reached regarding negotiations with the pirates to retrieve the MV Abdullah, which currently holds 23 sailors hostage. While ransom negotiations are underway, the ship's owner has not disclosed any confirmed information regarding the demanded amount.

Captain Sakhawat Hossain, General Secretary of the Bangladesh Merchant Marine Officers Association, assured that all sailors on board the ship are in good health, with several sailors maintaining contact with their families. The ship remains anchored in its previous position, located approximately one and a half nautical miles from the shore, under the control of Somali pirates.

The European Union and the Indian Navy have intensified efforts to pressure the pirates for the ship's rescue. However, it's emphasized that foreign agencies cannot conduct operations on Bangladeshi ships without the government's permission.

The ship's owner is striving to secure the release of MV Abdullah and its crew, who are currently communicating with an English-speaking individual hired by the pirates. Negotiations are ongoing, with the agreement pending the settlement of financial terms.

The pirates made initial contact with the vessel's owners after nine days, indicating that discussions are underway without specific demands at present. Relatives of the 23 sailors remain concerned about their loved ones' safety and eagerly await their release from captivity.

The MV Abdullah, owned by SR Shipping Lines, a sister company of the Chattogram-based Kabir Steel and Rerolling Mill (KSRM) Group, was seized by Somalian pirates on March 12 while transporting coal from Mozambique's Maputo port to Al Hamriyah Port in the UAE.