Somali forces free hijacked oil tanker; unverified Iraqi clan role claim sparks online debate

Puntland marine police stormed and liberated the oil tanker MT Seibo 1 off Somalia, as unconfirmed social media claims of Iraqi clan involvement spread.

• Puntland marine police announced Saturday it freed the tanker, carrying 228,000 barrels of oil, after a 48-hour operation ending in a boarding assault.
• Officials said one pirate was killed, five wounded, 41 arrested, and one officer injured; the 20 crew members were unharmed.
• Social media videos claimed Iraqi Shaghanba clan members assisted the rescue; no Iraqi or Somali official has confirmed the account.
• Somali officials said pirates still hold three other tankers, including fuel carriers valued at millions of dollars.