Following a suspected hijacking incident onboard the oil tanker “Nave Andromeda” off England, British armed forces managed to gain control of the vessel, while seven individuals have been detained.
In fact, the tanker arrived into UK waters on Sunday 25 October from Lagos, where the stowaways allegedly boarded the vessel.
In response to a police request, the Defence Secretary and Home Secretary authorised Armed Forces personnel to board a ship in the English Channel to safeguard life and secure the attacked vessel.
As Telegraph news agency reported, troops from the Special Boat Service stormed the Nave Andromeda under cover of darkness and in a nine minute raid detained seven suspected migrants after they forced the giant vessel to drop anchor five miles off the Isle of Wight.
What is more, according to the region’s Ministry of Defence, armed forces have gained control of the ship while police investigations will continue.
In light of the situation, UK Secretary of State for Defence & MP for Wyre and Preston North, Rt. Hon Ben Wallace MP, noted:
I commend the hard work of the Armed Forces and police to protect lives and secure the ship. In dark skies, and worsening weather, we should all be grateful for our brave personnel. People are safe tonight thanks to their efforts.
Concluding, initial reports confirmed that the crewmembers are safe and well.
