A Greek tanker hijacked off Benin, West Africa, has been freed, but five crew have been taken hostage.
The 9,100-dwt Leon Dias (built 2003), operated by Leon Shipping & Trading of Athens, was seized by gunmen claiming to be Biafran separatists on 29 January.
It is now anchored near Cotonou in Benin, being guarded by the country's navy, the International Business Times said.
The hijackers warned they would blow up the cargo unless the Nigerian government released pro-Biafran leader Nnamdi Kanu within 31 days.
They have abducted the Greek captain and third engineer, a Russian chief engineer and electrician, and a Filipino fitter.
They are being held in Nigeria.
Nigeria's defence spokesperson Rabe Abubakar said: "Whoever is behind this – individuals or groups – committed an act of sabotage. We are dealing with the government of Benin and we are working to ensure that the safety of those on board remains intact."
