[Iran Press TV Latest] Somali pirates have released a German-flagged container vessel, the Hansa Stavanger, after receiving a USD 2.7 million ransom. The bandits released the German freighter on Monday, while they had earlier demanded a ransom of up to USD 4.5 million. The 20,000-ton Hansa Stavanger with five Germans, three Russians, two Ukrainians and 14 Filipinos on board had been seized in April about 400 miles (646 km) off the southern Somali port city of Kismayu. NATO ships began anti-piracy operation off the coast of Somalia at the end of 2008. More than 30 ships from 16 nations are patrolling waters off the Somali coast in an attempt to ensure safe passage for ships heading to and from the Suez Canal. Despite the efforts, however, the warships have not been successful in stopping pirate attacks off Somalia. According to the International Maritime Bureau, Somali pirates attacked more than 130 merchant ships last year.