Pirates attack British ship off Africa coast, take hostagesFebruary 11, 2013 - 15:08 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Three crewmen have been taken hostage after pirates attacked a British ship off the west coast of Africa, BBC News reported. A Romanian and two Russians were taken when raiders boarded the Esther C cargo ship in the Gulf of Guinea. The pirates stole personal possessions from the crew before departing with their hostages last week. The Isle of Wight-based Carisbrooke Shipping, which owns the vessel, said it was taking "all possible steps" to secure their release. The nine remaining Filipino crew are reported to be safe. The cargo ship, which is carrying wood, is continuing its voyage the company said. Another ship from the firm has been sent to the region to offer assistance. Families of all crew members have been contacted and are being kept informed of the situation. Russia's foreign ministry confirmed two of its citizens were among the hostages taken between the Cameroonian port of Douala and the port of Malabo in Equatorial Guinea. Last week, a French-owned ship seized by pirates off Ivory Coast was freed. Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Kazakhstan welcomes Yerevan, Baku’s agreement to meet in Almaty Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has welcomed the agreement of Baku and Yerevan to hold negotiations in Almaty. Armenia offers to temporarily host, preserve Gaza manuscripts The Armenian Foreign Minister has said Yerevan is ready to help preserve manuscripts from the conflict zone in Gaza. Aliyev says no need for mediators in Armenia-Azerbaijan process Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev believes that Baku and Yerevan do not mediators in the process of normalizing relations. Aram I supports Karekin II’s “patriotic position” Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia Aram I has expressed support for the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. |