Feels like I am reborn: Sailor abducted by pirates returns to Odisha

Bhubaneswar: Odia sailor Sudeep Kumar Choudhury, who was abducted by Nigerian sea pirates and released after 70 days following the Government of India’s intervention, arrived in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday to a teary-eyed welcome from parents and family members.

Sudeep along with four other abducted seafarers arrived at Mumbai airport on Monday. After his debriefing in Mumbai yesterday, Sudeep arrived in Bhubaneswar airport today evening.

“It feels like I have taken rebirth. I thank those who helped five of us in our release from the captivity of Nigerian sea pirates,” said Sudeep.

“My happiness knows no bounds after my son’s return,” said Sudeep's father.

“I was tensed after Sudeep’s kidnapping and eagerly waiting for my son’s return. But from god’s grace Sudeep has returned and I am extremely happy,” said his emotional mother.

On April 19, Sudeep along with four other Indian seafarers was abducted by nine pirates from vessel, MT APECUS (IMO733810) anchored off Lagos, Nigeria.

The abductees were rescued after the intervention from the Ministry of External Affairs of the Government of India. Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and BJP National Vice President Baijayant Panda had also urged the MEA to take necessary measures for the release of the Odia sailor and other seafarers.