Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea: The mission to rescue the hostages the world forgot

Colonel John Steed, a retired British military attaché, launched a private mission to free three ships hijacked by Somali pirates during the peak of the crisis. Despite having no experience in hostage negotiations and no money, he managed to raise the ransom cash and rescue the crews.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 04 November 2021
Publisher: Icon Books Ltd

In the midst of the peak of the Somali piracy crisis, three ships, originating from Malaysia, Thailand, and Taiwan, were hijacked and subsequently abandoned by their employers, lacking the financial resources to secure their release through ransoms. However, the course of their fates would have been different had it not been for the remarkable actions of Colonel John Steed, a retired British military attaché. Despite his age of 65 and lack of experience in hostage negotiations, Colonel Steed embarked on a daring and selfless mission to rescue the captives.

Starting from scratch, Colonel Steed had to raise the ransom cash entirely on his own, operating from his spare room and transporting million-dollar ransom payments in the boot of his car. His determination and resilience were unwavering as he navigated the complex world of hostage negotiation, relying on his extensive knowledge and connections to gather information and secure the release of the hostages.

Colin Freeman, a former chief foreign correspondent for The Sunday Telegraph and a survivor of a hostage situation by Somali pirates, takes readers on an intimate journey into the realm of hostage negotiation. Through firsthand interviews and his own personal experiences, Freeman provides a compelling account of Colonel Steed's heroic rescue mission.

Colonel Steed's story is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the unwavering commitment to justice. His selfless actions not only saved the lives of the hostages but also demonstrated the power of individual courage in the face of adversity. The book sheds light on the complex dynamics of hostage negotiations and the challenges faced by those who risk their lives to bring peace to those in distress.

In conclusion, "The Rescue Mission" is a captivating and inspiring tale of bravery, determination, and the triumph of the human spirit. Colonel John Steed's remarkable rescue mission serves as a reminder of the incredible sacrifices made by individuals who are willing to risk everything to bring about positive change. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the world of international relations, human rights, and the power of compassion in the face of adversity.

Weight: 248g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781785788208