Lanka seeks release of crew

4 March 2010 12:27 pm

The Sri Lankan government has contacted its missions in Riyadh and the Consulate General in Jeddah seeking information on crew members reportedly of Sri Lankan nationality, aboard a hijacked Saudi Arabian ship and to secure their release.

The Foreign Ministry said that Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama has called for a report from the Sri Lanka Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General in Jeddah on this incident and requested the Missions to verify if there is indeed a Sri Lankan crew aboard the ship.

The Foreign Minister has also directed the two Sri Lanka Missions in Saudi Arabia to obtain all details pertaining to the crew members in the event they are Sri Lankan nationals, extend all possible assistance to ensure their welfare and expedite their release.

The Sri Lanka Embassy in Riyadh has informed this Ministry that they have contacted the Saudi Navel authorities and other connected organizations in this connection. The Consul General in Jeddah is also liaising with the company which owns this ship, to verify if there is indeed a Sri Lankan crew aboard the ship and if so, to ensure their safety and wellbeing.  (Daily Mirror online)