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Pirates Demand $25M for Saudi Supertanker

Saudis have ten days to pay up to save crew and oil

By Peter Fearon,  Newser Staff

Posted Nov 21, 2008 2:37 AM CST

(Newser) – Pirates who seized a Saudi supertanker and its crew have demanded a $25 million ransom from its owners within 10 days, reports the Guardian. The Sirius Star, which is carrying 2 million barrels of oil, is one of an astounding 17 ships being held by pirates off the coast of Somalia.  

"We do not want long-term discussions to resolve this matter," declared a a pirate chieftain calling himself Mohammed Said. "The Saudis have 10 days to comply, otherwise we will take action that could be disastrous." Sinking the vessel could release the oil and trigger an environmental disaster along the Somalia coast.

The Sirius Star supertanker, which has been commandeered by pirates off the Somali coast. The pirates are demanding $25 million in ransom.
The Sirius Star supertanker, which has been commandeered by pirates off the Somali coast. The pirates are demanding $25 million in ransom.   (AP Photo/Christian Duys)
Repairs are carried out in a cabin on the MV Kapitan Maslov. The ship was recently attacked by Somali pirates, but managed to escape.
Repairs are carried out in a cabin on the MV Kapitan Maslov. The ship was recently attacked by Somali pirates, but managed to escape.   (AP Photo/Nation TV)
The Sirius Star supertanker, which has been seized by pirates off the Somali coast. The pirates want $25 million in ten days for the return of the vessel and crew.
The Sirius Star supertanker, which has been seized by pirates off the Somali coast. The pirates want $25 million in ten days for the return of the vessel and crew.   (AP Photo/ Newsis via Daewoo shipping yards and commissioned)
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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 3 comments
Guest
Nov 22, 2008 12:30 AM CST
No,they can't.They are very poor. NOT!!!
Shannonals
Nov 21, 2008 10:22 PM CST
These are small boats overtaking huge haulers, and your telling me the companies can't afford the protection to ensure their shipments make it through?
jaguarj
Nov 20, 2008 7:41 PM CST
Just looking at the size of the vessel..how in the hell can these pirates be taking these ships as ransom. Where is the artillery to over take them. After all the ships now that have been ransomed do they not anticipate piracy. Oh well...it's their money.

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