Russian, Ukrainian hostages freed in Nigeria
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 26 February 2013 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Russian, Ukrainian hostages freed in Nigeria, 26 February 2013, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/513dd1ca23.html [accessed 20 May 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
February 26, 2013
Nigerian police say six foreign sailors kidnapped by armed pirates have been released unhurt.
Police said that no ransom was paid for their release.
The sailors, including three Ukrainian and two Russian nationals, were taken when gunmen stormed their oil servicing vessel on February 17.
The attack took place about 65 kilometers off the coast of oil-producing Bayelsa state.
In the days after the kidnapping, police announced the gunmen had demanded $1.3 million for their release.
But police said the kidnappers abandoned the hostages on February 25 while Nigerian security forces were in pursuit.
The kidnapping of foreign oil workers is on the rise in Nigeria's oil-rich south.
The hostages are often released following a ransom payment.
There have been at least five such attacks in the area this month.
Based on reporting by Interfax and AFP
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
