Pirates free Belgian dredger

PIRATES have freed a Belgian dredger hijacked two months ago off the Seychelles.

Stone-carrying vessel Pompei was released yesterday after a ransom was paid, reports the BBC.

It quoted Belgian prime minister Herman Van Rompuy saying "the entire crew is in good health".

Pompei had a Dutch captain, two Belgians, three Philipinos and four Croats on board.

It was siezed en route to South Africa from Dubai on 18 April, 150km north of the Seychelles. This region has seen an increase in attacks by pirates in recent months.

The ransom was paid by the ship's insurers and with the help of the Belgian government, reports the BBC. PIRATES have freed a Belgian dredger hijacked two months ago off the Seychelles.

(Source: Fairplay)