Desk Report: Jointly, the European Union and the Indian Navy have intensified pressure on sailors to rescue the Bangladeshi ship MV Abdullah, which was seized from the Indian Ocean by smugglers.
Consequently, the sailors have been displaced closer to the coast within one and a half nautical miles. Moreover, both naval forces are increasing pressure on their personnel to keep them away from conducting operations.
Senior Navy Captain Atiqur Khan disclosed this information on Tuesday evening.
Captain Atiq stated that the international naval forces have put considerable pressure on MV Abdullah in recent days. The warships are positioned within one and a half miles of MV Abdullah.
Consequently, the sailors have pulled the ship further inland, bringing it within just one and a half miles of the shore.
The smugglers have also warned that further displacement of the ship could result in its grounding. However, the two naval forces continue to inform each other of their respective positions.
He said, “Due to the naval pressure, sailors are now required to be stationed at the bridge of the ship for 24 hours. Additionally, they are intermittently using VHF (Walkie-Talkie) to request the naval forces not to approach.”
Captain Atiq also mentioned the internal situation on the ship, stating, “Most of the sailors are arranging local food for themselves now.
As a result, the ship’s food supply may run out soon. On the other hand, the sailors themselves are skipping meals to conserve food.”
“Currently, both iftar and sehri are being prepared for everyone on board. The usual variety of dishes prepared on the ship is being avoided,” Captain Atiq added.
Many sailors are suffering from allergies due to lack of regular showers and limited access to the bridge, Captain Atiq revealed. He said, “Due to water rationing and constant presence at the bridge, regular bathing and washing clothes are not feasible.
As a result, some sailors have developed allergies. Additionally, there is only one bathroom on the bridge which is being used by 25-30 sailors and 23 naval personnel. Consequently, maintaining cleanliness and using the bathroom regularly has become very difficult, according to the sailors.”
On the other hand, the Puntland Security Force (PSF) in the semi-autonomous region of Somalia, Puntland, has informed that they have arrested two smugglers who were carrying drugs for the hostages on MV Abdullah. PSF is ready to assist the joint naval force in any way possible in the resolution of the hostage situation.