Athens - A Greek freighter seized by pirates off the coast of Somalia four weeks ago has been released, Greece's state-run NET radio reported Wednesday.

The broadcaster quoted coast guard officials as saying the Titan was freed on Wednesday evening along with its crew of 24.

It was not clear whether the Greek owners of the vessel had paid the pirates a ransom.

The release comes days after another Greek ship, the Irene EM, was taken over by pirates off the Somalia coast.

More than 20 ships have been attacked in the last three weeks. Nine of those ships are in pirate hands, bringing the total number of ships being held to 16. Almost 300 crew members are being held hostage.

Pirates activity has picked up in recent weeks after a lull due to bad weather. (dpa)