Turkish vessel freed after seizure by pirates, Somali officials say

Mogadishu, Somalia - Turkish and Somali forces have successfully liberated the MV LUTUF, a Turkish vessel that had been held captive by pirates off the coast of Somalia, according to the country's defense ministry. The hijacking took place on August 17 in the Nugaal region of Puntland state. During the operation, four pirate boats were destroyed and 14 alleged pirates were killed. The remaining pirates abandoned the ship, allowing the forces to regain control.

The defense cooperation agreement between Somalia and Turkey, which aims to enhance maritime security, protect Somalia's coastline, and combat piracy, played a crucial role in the operation. However, the ministry did not disclose any information regarding casualties or the crew's welfare aboard the MV LUTUF.

Abdullahi Warsame, a local elder from the Jiifle community in the Godob Jiiraan district of Nugaal, confirmed to The Associated Press that the vessel and its crew have been freed. The MV LUTUF's capture has reignited concerns about the resurgence of piracy along Somalia's coastline.