The 23 sailors from the Bangladeshi ship MV Abdullah, currently held captive by Somali pirates, are anticipated to be released soon, although the exact timing remains uncertain. While negotiations with the pirates have progressed, it's unlikely that the sailors will return home before Eid.
Relatives of the sailors are anxiously awaiting their return, hoping to celebrate Eid together. However, even if the sailors are freed, logistical constraints may delay their arrival in Bangladesh before the holiday.
Rima Akhtar, wife of one of the sailors, expressed her distress over the situation, emphasizing the absence of Eid joy in their household. She eagerly awaits news of her husband's release to bring happiness back to their home.
According to Mizanul Islam, media advisor for Kabir Group, talks with the pirates have been promising, indicating that the sailors could be released imminently. Once freed, they will undergo necessary procedures before returning home by air.
Meanwhile, preparations are underway to assign a new team of 23 sailors to MV Abdullah. The ship, owned by SR Shipping under Kabir Group, was transporting coal from Mozambique to the United Arab Emirates when it was hijacked by pirates in the Indian Ocean on March 12.
MV Abdullah, a bulk carrier acquired by SR Shipping in 2016, is among the fleet of 24 ships operated by the company. Despite the ordeal, efforts are being made to ensure the safe return of the sailors and resume the ship's operations with a new crew.
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