Six suspected pirates on a motor whaler, acting as mother ship, and a skiff have been detained following attacks on a 52,000 tonne container ship and a fishing vessel, during a a 24 hour operation by EUNAVFOR, on 17-18 November, in the Southern Somali Basin.
EU NAVFOR Somalia’s Flagship, the Italian vessel ITS Virginio Fasan, apprehended the six men and seized their vessels. During the incidents, a number of rocket propelled grenades were fired against the container ship. However, adherence to BMP4, the presence of a security team on one of the vessels, and good seamanship avoided any damage or injuries, and all crew and vessels are now safe.
The suspected pirates were apprehended by the Italian Marines from ITS Virginio Fasan, after their vessels were located using Fasan’s SH-90 helicopter, following initial searches by the Spanish Maritime Patrol Aircraft Cisne.
A legal process has now begun for the suspected pirates to be transferred to the appropriate authority for prosecution.
“A reminder is made to all seafarers that adherence to BMP4 and registration with MSCHOA will help to overcome further illegal acts at sea. The presence of international counter-piracy forces in the area will continue to act as a deterrent to further incidents,” EUNAVFOR said.
