An international maritime body says, Somali pirates are holding at least 26 foreign vessels plus one barge with at least 474 seafarers. In a statement, the Ecoterra International today said that among the 474 seafarers are an elderly British yachting couple and five new hostages from Somaliland who are languishing in the pirates' hands. The maritime body said at least 26 foreign vessels plus one barge are kept in the hands of Somali pirates against the will of their owners. However, according to the European Union Naval Force in Somalia, the Somali pirates are currently holding 19 vessels, including the latest South Korean vessel. The South Korean vessel with 43 crew members was captured on October 9 while fishing 10 miles off the coast of Lamu, Kenya.