Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Four Indonesian Crew Members Held Hostage in Somali Waters are Healthy and Still Receiving Wages
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kemenlu) has ensured that four Indonesian crew members who fell victim to the hijacking of the MT Honour 25 in Somali waters are in a healthy condition and continue to receive their salaries.
“Based on information obtained from various sources, we can convey that the condition of the Indonesian crew is healthy, their logistical needs are met, and their salaries are still being paid,” said Ministry of Foreign and Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Vahd Nabyl Mulachela, in a video statement to journalists on Monday (18/5/2026).
Nabyl stated that the Ministry and Indonesian representatives are continuing intensive coordination with various parties, both domestically and abroad, to follow up on the hijacking of the MT Honour 25. “Currently, local governments, management crews, and relevant parties are still conducting negotiations with parties in Somalia,” he added.
Nabyl expressed hope that the ongoing negotiation process could be concluded within a reasonable timeframe. Previously, it was reported that four Indonesian citizens remained held hostage by pirates in Somali waters. The Indonesian government continues to coordinate efforts to ensure the safety of the victims.
Among the hostages is a sailor from South Sulawesi, Captain Ashari Samadikun (33). An alumnus of the Makassar Merchant Marine Polytechnic (PIP), he has been held since 21 April 2026 while commanding the MT Honour 25, which flies the flag of the United Arab Emirates. According to manifest data obtained from a colleague, Eleora Kamaya Lekon (38), the vessel sailing from Oman carries 17 crew members.
The four Indonesian nationals are Ashari Samadikun (captain), Wahudinanto (chief officer), Adi Faizal (third officer), and Fiki Mutakin. The remaining crew consists of 10 Pakistani nationals, along with one person each from Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and India. The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that intensive coordination is underway to handle the hijacking of the MT Honour 25 in the waters near Hafun, Somalia.