On 21 April, fishing vessels FV Adria and FV Txori Argi were attacked by suspected pirates in the Indian Ocean, 280 NM off the coast of Somalia, EUNAVFOR reported. The piracy attacks were thwarted, and the crew and vessels remained safe, due to the implementation of Best Management Practices (BMP) protection measures by the Masters, the crews and the private security teams on both fishing vessels.
EUNAVFOR Somalia Operation Atalanta confirmed these attacks, saying that they were likely facilitated by a mothership, which was reportedly seized by armed men on 19 April off the central Somali Coast.
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EUNAVFOR also dispatched its Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Aircrafts to search the area. In addition, EUNAVFOR flagship ESPS Navarra left the port in Mombasa in order to proceed into the area.
On 23 April, ESPS NAVARA successfully intercepted and boarded the dhow which was used as a mothership.
The operation is still taking place, and more details will be provided after it is completed.
EUNAVFOR remains committed to deterring, preventing and suppressing piracy and emphasizes that the Maritime Industry must adhere to BMP measures in order to maximize the safety of the ship and their crews whilst transiting the high-risk area
EUNAVFOR stated.