Somali pirates have taken 11 Pakistani crew members hostage at sea, prompting urgent calls from their families for government action.
Among the hostages is sailor Ameen bin Shams, who sent a voice message saying the crew had been captured and feared for their lives. He asked his family to forgive him and pray for their safety.
His family says they have had little contact since, apart from brief updates that the crew is receiving food but remains in uncertain and difficult conditions.
Relatives have also expressed concern over what they call a slow response from authorities and are appealing for immediate assistance.