Alert by IMP Piracy Reporting Centre
IMB Piracy Reporting Centre (PRC) issues the following information alerts regarding piracy activities in West Africa..
Benin: On 15 June 2011, a tanker was hijacked off Cotonou, Benin. The pirates forced the Master to sail to an unknown location. The pirates stole ships properties and left the tanker after almost a day later. Attacks are increasing off Cotonou. Vessels, especially tankers, such as this one, are reported being hijacked for a few days. Crews are forced to rendezvous with other local barges and cargo is stolen. Crews are also injured due to the increase in the violence. Ships are advised to take extra precautions and maintain appropriate anti piracy Best Management Practices.
Conakry (Guinea): Pirates armed with automatic weapons are violent and aggressive in the attacks. In some attacks, pirates are dressed in military uniforms.
Douala Outer Anchorage (Cameroon): Two attacks with kidnapping of crews have occurred at Douala.
Nigeria: Attacks are occurring mainly in Lagos and in the Bonny river. Heavily armed pirates target ships underway along the coast and river including anchorages and within port areas. In some cases crew members have been kidnapped. Pirates are violent, and in recent incidents reports crews have been injured. Ships are advised to take extra precautions and avoid anchoring if possible. Approaching pilot station in time for picking up pilot and proceeding into port for berthing is safer. Generally all waters in Nigeria remain risky. Vessels are also advised to be vigilant in other ports in Nigeria as many attacks may have gone unreported.
Source: IMB Piracy Reporting Centre
