FM explores diplomatic solution to free Lankan sailors

No ransom demand was received by Sri Lankan missions in Yemen and Dubai to release nine Sri Lankan sailors held in Hudida Harbour, confirmed Deputy Minister Harsha de Silva yesterday in Parliament, while ensuring a diplomatic solution.

Cargo carrier MT Fair Apollon has been berthed in the Hudida Harbour near the borders of Yemen and Saudi Arabia for over two months due to a commercial disagreement between a cargo supplier and cargo receiver. The crew of the vessel contains Sri Lankan and Indian sailors, according to the Deputy Minister.

“L. A. P. Silva, L. Bulegoda, K. D. U. C. Premarathna, A. C. P. Premarathna, K. S. S. Rathnayake, C. C. Anthony, K. I. P. Bandara, A. M. Rohan, and V. W. D. S. Dharshana are held up at Hudida Harbour. The Sri Lankan missions in Yemen, as well as in Dubai, have contacted the employer of these sailors. Merchant Shipping Secretariat of Sri Lanka is supporting the Foreign Ministry for the release of these sailors.

“The particular shipping company has already provided the sailors food, water, and necessary fuel. Unfortunately, this ship is held in an area controlled by rebels and it is difficult to have direct contact. Indian sailors are also employed in this ship and Sri Lanka expects the Indian Government to intervene. However, no ransom was asked from the shipping company,” said the Deputy Minister. (AH)