Dutch naval forces have arrested seven suspected Somali pirates who escaped on Wednesday evening. They are being held on the frigate Hr Ms Tromp which is part of the European Union anti-piracy mission in the Indian Ocean.

The Dutch detained and disarmed four would-be ship hijackers on Wednesday but another seven managed to evade arrest. The frigate gave chase but the pirates got away and the search was called off as darkness fell. However, on Thursday, the Dutch caught up with the seven and arrested them.

The detained pirates, 20 in all, some of whom were caught earlier, will be released with their boat near the Somali coast on Friday. The Dutch navy has to release the pirates because of the difficulties associated with putting them on trial.

© Radio Netherlands Worldwide