BERLIN — A European Union naval spokesman said Somali pirates released a German vessel after a ransom was paid.

British Royal Navy Cmdr. John Harbour said the ship, which had been held nearly four months, was released after the ransom was paid around lunchtime.

He said by telephone today: "The Hansa Stavanger was released within the last two hours by the pirates who left the ship."

"She put to sea on her own steam, and she is continuing out to sea under the protection of European naval force units."

He was reached at the headquarters of the EU's anti-piracy mission in Northwood, near London.

He said EU forces had not yet boarded the vessel but "the positive news is we have not heard of any casualties."