In response to a query on the kidnapping of Indian crew aboard MT Duke, the official spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said:
"We are concerned by the kidnapping of 20 Indian crew members (as reported by the Shipping agency) from the vessel MT Duke in the high seas off the western coast of Africa on 15th December 2019. This is the 3rd such incident this year in the region, affecting
Indian nationals. Our Mission in Abuja has taken up the matter with the Nigerian authorities, as also with the authorities of the neighbouring countries. The safety of hostages is paramount and we continue to engage with Nigerian authorities and other stakeholders
closely on the recent incidents."
New Delhi
December 16, 2019