The Danish Johansen family and their two crew, held by Somali pirates since 24 February, have been shown to a reporter by their captives.

The unnamed Danish journalist was allowed to visit the seven hostages, including three children, on board another vessel captured by the pirates in the Indian Ocean. A ransom of £3.1 million is reportedly being demanded.

The hostages are thought to be in reasonable health but are said to be tired, angry and demoralised. They were not permitted to talk to the reporter.

According to the EU, 31 vessels and 688 hostages are being held mainly after capture in the Gulf of Aden, one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes.

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