The vessel was carrying wheat from Lagos to Port Harcourt, when pirates boarded it on 22 September, about 45 nautical miles south west of Bonny Island and kidnapped 12 of the 19 crew members.

However, all twelve have been freed after the ship’s operator Massoel Shipping negotiated with the pirates, and they were taken to Switzerland to be interviewed and receive psychological support, the Canton Bexternal linkasel City public prosecutor’s office informed.

Basel justice authorities have started proceedings for kidnapping, illegal restraint and hostage taking.

The crew members are from the Philippines, Slovenia, Ukraine, Romania, Croatia and Bosnia.