The Indian Mission in Nigeria says nineteen Indian sailors who were abducted by pirates along the Nigerian coast have been released.

It, however, said a twentieth sailor died in as a result of ill condition in captivity.

The Indian government on December 14, had said 20 of its nationals aboard an oil tanker, MV Duke, were kidnapped by pirates in the Gulf of Guinea West along the shores of Nigeria.

“Our Mission in Abuja has taken up the matter with the Nigerian authorities, as also with the authorities of the neighboring countries,” the Indian foreign ministry had said.

But in a statement on Sunday, the Indian High Commission in Nigeria via its verified Twitter handle, @india_nigeria, said only 19 were of the crew members were released. It said ”one sadly died in captivity in adverse conditions.”

“Indian Govt and Mission gave the highest priority and worked with @NigeriaGov on the release of 20 Indian seafarers kidnapped on 15 Dec from MV Duke. 19 were released yesterday.

”One sadly died in captivity in adverse conditions. Our deepest condolences. Mission assisting in speedy return,” the High Commission said.