The authorities in Seychelles have sought explanation over the early release of 19 convicted pirates in Somaliland.
The convicts who were sentenced in Seychelles were transferred to Somalia to complete their sentences in 2012.
The convicts were sentenced in Seychelles to serve 30, 36 and 42 years in prison for piracy.
In a statement by Department of Foreign Affairs, Ian Madeleine, the director of Maritime Affairs at Seychelles’ Department of Foreign Affairs said 19 convicts were transferred into the custody of the Somaliland authorities.
“The announcement came as a surprise for us because it is an action that has been taken without consultation with the government of Seychelles. It is against the MoU that we signed with the Somaliland authorities,” he said.
The official called on Somalia to review concern in respect of international law and the deal to fight against piracy.
Seychelles condemned the early release of the 19 Somali pirates by the Somaliland authorities.
The authorities in Seychelles vowed it will bring the matter to the attention to the Secretary-General of the United Nations and the United Nations Security Council.”
Madeleine explained that such a decision endangers the efforts done to fight against piracy and puts at risk the security of the Indian Ocean.
In 2011, the two countries signed a Memorandum of Understanding on the transfer of sentenced pirates between the government Somalia and Seychelles. In 2012.
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