By IANS,
New Delhi, Nov 18 (IANS) Prabhat Kumar Goyal, the Indian captain of Stolt Valor, the Japanese ship that was freed from Somali pirates, has sent the first message from the ship, now sailing towards Mumbai:
“I, Captain Prabhat Kumar Goyal, wish to extend my sincere thanks & gratitude & also on behalf of my officers & crew for the very sincere efforts made by our owners Yamamaru Kisen Co. Ltd, Japan, technical managers Fleet Mgmnt Ltd and to all involved directly or indirectly in getting all 22 crew & the vessel itself safely released from the Somalian hijackers at 0412 hrs Lt on Saturday, the 16th of November, 2008.
“It was not only an ordeal but also a nightmare for all of us on board the Stolt Valor.
“Pls convey my personal regards & thanks to Capt Saggi as also to capt Awasthi.”