Egypt secures release of 20 Egyptian sailors held in Yemen

Egyptian authorities succeeded in releasing 20 Egyptian sailors who were held in Yemen over the past several days reportedly over charges of trespassing into Yemeni territorial waters without a permit.

The authorities confirmed that the sailors are all in good condition and receiving the necessary care, adding that preparations are ongoing to ensure their safe return home.

The step comes in line with the president’s directives to all the bodies concerned to provide support to Egyptian citizens inside and outside the country.

A boat carrying 20 Egyptian sailors started a fishing trip from the Egyptian Red Sea Port of Berenice on 18 March, however, their families lost touch with them 10 days later, when they were arrested by Houthis for trespassing into Yemeni territorial waters.