KARACHI, June 15: The cargo vessel MV Suez, which has been released by Somali pirates, is now being escorted to the nearest port by Pakistan Navy destroyer Babur, sources have told Dawn.

The ship, which is a part of the Coalition Task Force 151, is providing security to the freed vessel and its crew and helicopters on the ship are also constantly monitoring the journey, they add.

Pakistan Navy’s help had been sought to ensure safe return of the freed Pakistani hostages.

Sindh Governor Dr Ishratul Ibad Khan said on Wednesday that he had contacted Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Noman Bashir for provision of a safe passage to the freed merchant navy personnel to the nearest port.

The naval chief assured the governor every possible help in this connection and appreciated his efforts for seeking the release of the hostages, said a statement issued here by the Governor’s House.

Freed vessel MV Suez is now heading towards the Omani port of Salalah.

The Sindh governor said in the statement that a continuous monitoring of the vessel’s journey was being done and he was receiving reports every half an hour in this regard.