Seychelles military forces rescue hijacked Sri Lankan fishermen |30 January 2024

Commander in Chief of the Seychelles Defence Forces, President Wavel Ramkalawan has praised the Special Forces and Coast Guards for their role in intercepting a Sri Lankan fishing vessel hijacked by armed Somali pirates.

The joint effort between the Seychelles military forces and the Sri Lankan navy successfully rescued six Sri Lankan nationals aboard the hijacked vessel.  The Seychelles forces led the operation from the Coast Guard vessel, Topaz.

President Ramkalawan expressed his congratulations to Chief of Defence Forces, Brigadier Michael Rosette, for the well-executed mission in a statement issued by the State House.

"This is the spirit of the Seychelles Defence Forces. Professionalism, courage and bravery are the tenets of the new spirit in the force. Though small, we will make our contribution in attaining maritime security, peace and determination in the fight against terrorism to ensure that the world, especially in our part of the Indian Ocean remains a safe and peaceful region.

“Once again, I reiterate the pride and confidence of the Seychellois nation in the Seychelles Defence Forces,” President Ramkalawan’s statement emphasised.

According to Sri Lankan news reports, the six fishermen embarked on their journey aboard the 'Lorenzo Putha 4' from the Dikkowita Fishery Harbour on January 12.

They were reportedly captured by an armed group suspected to be Somali pirates north of Seychelles.

Reports confirm that the six fishermen are safe and on their way to Seychelles, accompanied by three suspected Somali sea pirates detained by the Seychelles forces.

The rescued fishermen are expected to arrive in Seychelles today.

Laura Pillay