INTERPOL is Leading the Forensic Investigation of the MT Honour 25 Ship

The International Police Organization INTERPOL is supporting the authorities in Somalia and Puntland in the forensic investigation of the vessel MT Honour 25, which was seized from Somali pirates.

INTERPOL's support focuses on the process of collecting, packaging, storing, and transferring evidence from the vessel to laboratories.

The investigation could assist in identifying the individuals who carried out the hijacking and linking evidence to the suspects apprehended.

Evidence that can be sought from the vessel may include fingerprints, DNA samples, weapons, communication equipment, and electronic data.

Maintaining the chain of custody is crucial for ensuring that the data obtained from the vessel can be used in court proceedings.

An operation in Bosaso has also recorded 34 individuals linked to terrorism-related offenses, with Somali officials trained in the use of biometric equipment. It has not been disclosed that these individuals are directly connected to the hijacking of MT Honour 25.

INTERPOL's role can shift the investigation from internal data collection to an international inquiry, especially if the suspects, weapons, or ransom funds are linked to networks operating in different countries.