RRI.CO.ID, Gowa – The Omani-flagged tanker Honour 25 was hijacked by Somali pirates on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, in Somali waters. The ship’s captain, Ashari Samadikun (33), is among four Indonesian nationals being held hostage.

Ashari’s wife, Santi Sanaya (26), said her husband had informed her that the pirates were demanding a ransom. They threatened to execute the crew if their demands were not met.

The ransom amount remains unknown as negotiations are still ongoing. The family has not received any official information regarding steps taken by either the government or the shipping company.

Seventeen crew members of the Honour 25 were taken hostage, including four Indonesians. The Indonesians consist of two from South Sulawesi, one from West Java, and one from Central Java.

“We hope the government will act quickly so they can return home safely,” Santi said in Gowa Regency, South Sulawesi, on Sunday, April 26.

She added that Ashari has served as the ship’s captain since January 2026 and had planned to return to Indonesia once his contract ended upon arrival at the vessel’s destination.

According to MarineTraffic.com, the Honour 25 was last reported in East Africa on April 24, 2026, at 11:30 local time.

The vessel, registered under IMO number 1099735, is an oil products tanker sailing under the flag of Palau. It measures 110 meters in length and 19 meters in width. The ship’s reported destination was listed as MOGADISHO.ARMGAURD, matched to Mogadishu, Somalia.

The victim’s family is urging the Indonesian government to immediately take diplomatic and rescue measures to ensure the safe return of the crew. (Gusti Panji/Misni Parjiati)