Sailors from the EU Naval Force French Navy frigate, FS Courbet, have provided support and reassurance to the crew of the freed fuel tanker, Aris 13, as she sailed along the coast of Somalia.

The tanker, which had been held at anchor for four days by armed pirates until its release on Thursday, was on her way to a port of safety.

The French sailors gave water and other supplies to the relieved crew and asked if they needed any further assistance.

EU Naval Force warships and maritime patrol aircraft conduct sea and air patrols off the coast of Somalia to deter and repress acts of piracy. The EU Naval Force also provides protection to World Food Programme vessels carrying food aid to displaced people in Somalia.