Families of Pakistani crew members abducted by Somali pirates demand government action for safe recovery after 23 days of the hijacking.
Sailors' families have taken to protesting in Karachi, expressing grave concern over the lack of government intervention in a 23-day-long ship hijack. The oil tanker was seized by Somali pirates who are holding 10 Pakistani crew members hostage. Speaking at a protest held on Wednesday, affected families no concrete efforts had been made for their safe recovery despite numerous updates from the government.
"Our only demand is the safe recovery and return of our loved ones," the protesting families said, emphasizing that the hostages' lives remain in serious danger. They warned that if Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif does not take immediate notice of the situation, they would launch a hunger strike along with their children in the coming days.
A large number of women and children participated in the protest, holding placards bearing photographs of the abducted crew members and slogans demanding their release. The protesting families included the wives of several crew members. Anjuman-e-Burhani Trust Chairman Ansar Burney also visited the protest site along with his family to express solidarity with the affected families.
The families said they had recently managed to speak with the hostages, who reported deteriorating conditions aboard the vessel. "They told us their hope of survival is fading, food and water have run out, and their condition is extremely critical," they said. They demanded the immediate appointment of a government-level focal person, activation of diplomatic channels, and urgent steps for the recovery of the hostages.
Speaking on the occasion, Ansar Burney termed the government's response "highly indifferent." He although no official ransom demand has been made so far, efforts were being made through his charity to facilitate contacts at various levels. He urged Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to take immediate notice of the situation and ensure swift action for the safe recovery of the crew.
The families' demands highlight the urgent need for government intervention in this prolonged hijacking ordeal. As the 23rd day passes, their voices continue to resonate with a growing sense of urgency and desperation.
