The pirates face 26 charges of murder, piracy and kidnapping for SV Quest
Three Somalis on trial in the USA for the hijack and killing of four US hostages could face the death penalty if found guilty by the Norfolk, Virginia court.
The pirates face 26 charges of murder, piracy and kidnapping for their role in the hijacking of the Quest in the Indian Ocean in February 2011 and the death of two American couples.
The hostages were killed four days after the hijack during a failed US Navy rescue attempt. Four Somalis were also killed during the incident, and others on board were arrested and prosecuted in the USA, where most have been found guilty and given life sentences.
According to the International Maritime Bureau (IMB) worldwide piracy reporting centre, Somali pirates still hold captive four vessels and 68 hostages.
Worldwide Incidents 2013 | 143 reported, including seven hijackings |
Somali related incidents 2013 | Nine reported, including two hijackings |
Current crew/vessels held by Somali pirates | 68 hostages / 4 vessels |
Nigeria related incidents 2013 | 22 reported, including one hijacking |
For more information please contact the IMB on +44 (0) 20 7423 6960 |