British forces storm hijacked ship

British forces have freed an Italian cargo ship attacked by pirates off Somalia.

The Montecristo was taken by five armed men on Monday. It was carrying a crew of 23 – seven Italians, six Ukrainians and 10 Indians.

Two ships, one British and one American, carried out the raid and 11 pirates were captured.

The Italian foreign ministry said the ship was freed by British forces. Defence Minister Ignazio La Russa plans a news conference with further details.

The ministry expressed great satisfaction in the operation and extended thanks to the British Navy for its role.

Pirates flourish off largely lawless Somalia by attacking passing ships, taking hostages and demanding ransoms to free them and the vessels.