National
Kidnapped Spanish fishing boat said to have set sail again in Somalia
By h.b.
Apr 25, 2008 - 8:04 AM

The Somali pirates who have taken control of the Spanish tuna fishing boat ‘Playa de Bakio’ and its 26 crew, 13 of whom are Spaniards, have, according to report of residents in the area, taken the boat back out onto the high seas to avoid any assault from rival pirates. Reports indicate that the kidnappers loaded up with food and medicines before setting sail again.

The Spanish Government is continuing with talks with the pirates but reports from the crew say that they are becoming increasingly worried and concerned by the lack of progress. The Spanish Ambassador to Kenya, Nicolás Martín Cinto, is continuing his contacts with the Somali captain and had more meetings planned with the Somali Prime Minister, Nur Hasan Husein.

The kidnapping of the Spanish vessel, which happened last Sunday, comes during one of the worst moments in the civil war which is ravaging the country.

The Spanish navy frigate, ‘Méndez Núñez’ and P-3 Orion patrol planes are in the area. The daughter of one of the sailors being held hostage has meanwhile asked for ‘space’ for the families as the negotiating process could be a long one. Ainhize, daughter of Juan Pedro Sesma, one of the crew, called for the kidnappers to be given what they want and the men to be brought home.