The government has expressed concern over the kidnapping of 20 Indian crew members from the vessel MT Duke in the high seas off the western coast of Africa.
In response to a query on the kidnapping, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said the Indian Mission in Abuja has taken up the matter with the Nigerian authorities, as also with the authorities of the neighbouring countries.
He stressed that the safety of hostages is paramount, and there is continuous engagement with Nigerian authorities and other stakeholders on the recent incidents.
Mr Kumar said this is the 3rd such incident this year in the region, affecting Indian nationals.