The Turkish Navy, in cooperation with the Somali National Army, said it had freed the MV LATUF, which was hijacked by pirates on August 17, while it was sailing near the Jiifle coast in the Eyl district of the Nugaal region.
According to a press release from the Somali Ministry of Defense, the 10-day operation destroyed four boats allegedly used by the pirates, while 14 pirates were killed in the operation.
The ministry said Somali and Turkish forces had fully taken control of the MV LATUF, which has now been returned to its crew.
The operation, according to the Ministry of Defense, was based on a defense cooperation agreement between Somalia and Turkey, which strengthens cooperation between the two countries in protecting the Somali coast, ensuring maritime security and combating piracy.
The ministry also said that piracy is a serious crime that can lead to severe punishment, warning groups involved in piracy and anyone who supports it.
The operation comes at a time of renewed concerns about piracy off the coast of Puntland, with the MV LATUF incident also raising questions about who is behind the hijacking and the security situation off the coast of Nugal.
The Ministry of Defence said that Somalia will continue to cooperate with Turkey and other friendly countries to strengthen coastal security and prevent piracy.
