- AP Photo/ Arabian Navy
VIVAnews - Coordinating Minister for Political, Justice and Security Affairs, Djoko Suyanto, told reporters on Monday that an agreement between Somali pirates and PT Samudera Indonesia as the owner of MV Sinar Kudus ship has been made. He went on to say that 20 crews of the ship are held hostage by the pirates.
"Seemingly, we've proceeded to [negotiation] phase. An agreement has been made," said Suyanto today, April 18.
However, Djoko refused to mention the detailed amount of ransom being prepared.
Djoko did not reveal as well about the precise handover time of the ransom. He on the other hand said the government maintains communication with the Somali pirates.
Djoko emphasized safety of the captured ship crews. It is reported that the condition of the 20 ship crews worsens due to food and water shortage.
Resky Judian, son of Ship Captain Slamet Juari, said the government have likely fixed up a settlement with the pirates, "around US$3.05 million," higher than the previous demand of US$3 million.