The European Community Shipowners’ Associations (ECSA) and the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) both denounce the attack against the bulk carrier “MV BONITA” and highlight that they both closely monitor the situation.
Guy Platten, ICS Secretary General commented
We condemn unreservedly the boarding of the MV Bonita and the subsequent taking of nine crewmembers. These actions are in violation of international regulations, which protect ships and their crews as they go about their legitimate business. Seafarers across the world have the right to operate free from the fear of kidnap or capture.
In addition, Martin Dorsman, ECSA Secretary General stated
It is unacceptable that the pirates managed to capture nine crew members of the MV BONITA. Seafarers and vessels must be allowed to sail in complete safety and security.
Both Associations note the importance of seafarers’ safety as a top priority and their efforts on bringing them back to safety. The Norwegian Shipowners’ Association, member of both ICS and ECSA, is in close contact with the shipping company and the relevant authorities.
Mainly, the MV BONITA, Norwegian-flagged bulk carrier, was boarded by pirates, while at anchor off Cotonou in Benin. The captain was one of the nine members taken off the vessel, according to the company’s statement.
These days, many are the attacks taking place in Africa, as yesterday, November 4, pirates boarded the tanker ‘Elka Aristotle’, off Lome, Togo, kidnapping 4 crew members, as the European Navigation confirmed.
