Sailors aboard the MV Abdullah, a vessel seized by Somali pirates in the Indian Ocean, are facing skin diseases amidst critical shortages of essential supplies. Despite adequate food provisions, the ship is experiencing a severe scarcity of fresh water. Rationing measures are in place to conserve water, with sailors permitted to shower only once or twice a week. Additionally, the vessel has depleted its first aid supplies. Amidst the ongoing threat of armed pirates, a tentative rapport has developed between the sailors and their captors. Consequently, the sailors are no longer subjected to the same level of mistreatment and are allowed to remain in their cabins while fulfilling regular ship duties. Shamsuddin, a crew member aboard MV Abdullah, relayed the challenging circumstances to his relatives, assuring them of the sailors' resilience despite the adversities. Family members have contacted SR Shipping officials, who have provided assurances of ongoing efforts to secure the sailors' release. However, concerns persist over the timeline for their liberation. Atiq U A Khan, a captain of a commercial vessel, disclosed that most sailors are suffering from skin ailments, exacerbated by the lack of medical supplies and access to fresh water, which is available only twice a week. M Anam Chowdhury, president of the Bangladesh Merchant Marine Officers' Association (BMMOA), revealed that while an agreement for the sailors' release has been reached between the ship owner and the pirates, several procedural steps remain. The anticipated timeframe for their liberation hinges on these processes, which could span between one to four weeks. Mizanul Islam, media advisor for Kabir Group, affirmed ongoing negotiations with the pirates, expressing optimism for the imminent release of the sailors. MV Abdullah, owned by SR Shipping under Kabir Group, was transporting coal from Mozambique to Hamriyah port in the United Arab Emirates when it was hijacked on March 12.
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