Somali Piracy Yearbook 2009

Somali Piracy Yearbook 2010 launched

2010-01-07T16:48:00.004-05:00

Happy New Year. We close out 2009 and move this effort to the Somali Piracy Yearbook 2010 blogging site.

The paperback publication of Somali Piracy Yearbook for 2009 is out now.

Incident: Crude tanker taken

2009-12-31T00:32:00.000-05:00

A crude tanker, not otherwise identified, is hijacked in the Indian Ocean about 970 NM off Mogadishu. Some 28 crew are hostage as well. No details. (ICC/IMB Website)

Incident: China proposes anti-pirate base

2009-12-30T16:26:00.002-05:00

A Chinese rear admiral has proposed setting up an anti-piracy naval base off Somalia. Admiral Yin Zhou, in a post to a Ministry of Defense website, spoke of the difficulty faced by Chinese warships operating so far from home without a base. (BBC, 12/30/09)

Incident: Album attacked

2009-12-30T10:10:00.000-05:00

The Album, a 105,000-ton Kuwaiti oil tanker, is attacked 800 NM off Somalia's north coast. A spokesman for the European Union naval force in the area said the attack lasted 30 minutes and caused no damage. (AP, 12/30/09)

Incident: De Xin Hai released by pirates

2009-12-29T16:35:00.001-05:00

A helicopter dropped a $4 million ransom on the deck of the De Xin Hai (12/27/09) in an attempt to ransome the ship, its crew of 25 and its cargo of coal (76,000 tonnes). The ship was taken October 19 in the Indian Ocean. (Daily Nation, 10/27/09)

China announced today that the vessel is heading home. (Xinhua, 12/29/09)

Incident: Ship fired upon

2009-12-29T16:30:00.000-05:00

A ship sailing the Indian Ocean, not otherwise identified, is fired upon by pirates. No details. (American Public Media Marketplace, 12/3/0/09)

Incident: Navios Apollon taken

2009-12-29T15:54:00.002-05:00

The Greek cargo ship Navios Apollon has been taken by pirates 240 NM northwest of the Seychelles. Ten pirates in two speedboats attacked the vessel, which had been carrying 19 crew and a cargo of fertilizer from Florida to India. (SETimes.com)

Incident: Oil tanker attacked

2009-12-29T15:48:00.003-05:00

A Kuwaiti oil tanker, not otherwise identified, is attacked in the Gulf of Aden by pirates armed with rifles and rocket propelled grenades. The pirates, in a single skiff, chased the tanker, eventually breaking off the attack. (AFP)

The pirates sprayed their target with automatic rifle fire; there were no injuries or significant damage. (Journal of Commerce)

Incident: St. James Park seized

2009-12-28T16:08:00.001-05:00

Somali pirates have seized the British flagged tanker St. James Park and its crew of 26 en route from Thailand to Spain. (Journal of Commerce, 12/30/09)

Incident: Al Mahmoud 2 taken

2009-12-28T16:06:00.001-05:00

The Yemeni cargo ship Al Mahmoud 2 has been taken by pirates, Yemen's defense ministry announced. The vessel had at least 15 people on board when it set off from Aden on 12/18. (BBC, 12/28/09)

It is a 149 m long vessel registered in Singapore. (vesseltracker.com)

Incident: De Xin Hai released

2009-12-28T14:54:00.002-05:00

Chinese bulk carrier De Xin Hai is released after a reported ransom payment of $4 million. At the time of capture (10/19), its hijacking 700 miles east of Somalia was the farthest Somali pirate strike to date. (Wikipedia, "List of ships attacked by Somali pirates," 12/31/09)

Incident: Kota Wajar released

2009-12-28T14:35:00.000-05:00

Singapore container ship Koto Wajar, captured 10/15/09 north of the Seychelles, is released near Haradere. "The Canadian warship HMCS FREDERICTON from TF 508 is now providing medical and logistical assisting to the KOTA WAJAR." (EU NAVFOR Public Affairs Office, 12/28/09)

China has claimed it rescued 25 crew. "Beijing made no mention of a ransom payment, despite reports that $4m (£2.5m) was delivered to pirates." (BBC, 12/28/09)

Analysis: Reuters counts captured ships

2009-12-27T16:52:00.002-05:00

Reuters tallies the ships in pirate hands as follows: Win far 161: Taiwanese tuna boat, seized on April 6, 2009.

Kota Wajar: Seized on October 15, 2009. The 24,637-tonne container ship, seized 300 miles north of Seychelles, was heading for Mombasa from Singapore and had 21 crew on board.

Al Khaliq - Seized on October 22, 2009. The Panamanian-registered ship carried 26 crew, 24 of them Indian. It is owned and operated by SNP Shipping of Mumbai. The 38,305 dwt bulk carrier was seized west of the Seychelles.

Thai Union 3 - Seized on October 29, 2009. Pirates on two skiffs boarded the tuna fishing boat with 23 Russians, two Filipinos and two Ghanaians on board. Filitsa: Seized on Nov. 10, 2009. The 23,709 dwt cargo ship had three Greek officers a Filipino crew. The Marshall Islands-flagged ship had been heading from Kuwait to Durban, South Africa, when it was attacked 500 miles northeast of the Seychelles.

Theresa VIII: Seized on Nov. 16, 2009. The chemical tanker was hijacked in the south Somali Basin, northwest of the Seychelles. The 22,294 dwt tanker had a crew of 28 North Koreans. The captain of the tanker died from gunshot wounds sustained during the hijack, a Somali pirate said.

Maran Centaurus: Seized Nov 29, 2009: The tanker was sailing from Kuwait to the Gulf of Mexico when it was seized near the Seychelles. The tanker had nine Greeks, two Ukrainians, one Romanian and 16 Filipinos on board.

Shahbaig: Seized Dec 6, 2009: Pirates seized the Pakistani-flagged fishing vessel, with a crew of 29 on board.

(Daily Nation, 12/27/09)

Analysis: Attempts up, hijackings flat in '09

2009-12-25T09:47:00.001-05:00

Figures released by the Internationa Maritime Bureau (IMB) as of mid-December show that although the number of Somali pirate attacks on shipping is dramatically up, the ratio of attacks to successful hijackings has slipped roughly by half.

The IMB counted 209 boarding attempts, 43 of them successful in 2009. In 2008, 111 reported attempts yielded 42 successes. Spokesman for the European Union naval forces on the scene, CDR John Harbour, said "A lot more ships would have been taken if we weren't there." (AP, 12/25/09)

Incident: CTF 150 gets new commander

2009-12-16T21:56:00.002-05:00

Australian Navy Commodore Richard Menhinick has replaced Pakistan Navy Rear Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah as commander of the Combined Task Force 150 as a result of the scheduled twice per year command rotation. CTF 150 is the anti-terrorist force tasked with the extra duty of pirate disruption. It was supplemented at the start of this year with CTF 151, exclusively devoted to anti-piracy. (Gulf Daily News, 12/17/09)

Incident: Italians take command of Atalanta

2009-12-13T16:34:00.000-05:00

Italy has taken command of the EU's Atalanta operation from the Dutch in a change of command ceremony. Task Force 465 will be run from the newly designated flagship, Italy's Etna, "a naval replenishment and logistic support ship." (Press release, 12/13/09)

Analysis: Lynn Rival uproar endangers minister

2009-12-12T14:58:00.001-05:00

The UK government's decision not to rescue the Lynn Rival's owners, the Chandlers, has caused a press uproar that threatens the defense minister's portfolio.

On October 29, the MoD said the Navy had found the Lynn Rival, but made no mention that the [naval vessel] Wave Knight was 50 yards away as the Chandlers were taken off it. On November 17, First Sea Lord Sir Mark Stanhope said the Wave Knight did not have 'special expertise to deal with hostage rescue'. On November 29, it emerged that the Marine rescue force was on board, despite Sir Mark's claims.

The situation is aggravated by hostage videos released by the pirates. Rachel Chandler is shown above in a video still. Lynn Rival, a sailboat, was taken 10/23/09. (Mail Online, 12/12/09)

Analysis: EU NAVFOR announces "year of success"

2009-12-10T16:17:00.000-05:00

EU NAVFOR celebrated its first year of operations with a cake and the declaration that "This has been a period of success for EU Naval Force."

Admiral Hudson, the Operational Commander of EU NAVFOR stated that “while piracy cannot be defeated at sea alone, much is being done in Europe to bring stability to Somalia. We have been very successful in capturing pirates and pirate activity has been severely disrupted”.

Some of the highlights:

* "Sharing of information through the Shared Awareness and Deconfliction Conferences (SHADE), has been extremely successful and this cooperation is bringing together national navies not normally associated with the EU, NATO and CMF."

* "The establishment of the International Recognised Transit Corridor in the Gulf of Aden has been a great achievement in the management and provision of protection to commercial shipping transiting these dangerous waters."

* "Effective communication with the commercial shipping community has been established through the establishment of Maritime Security Centre, Horn of Africa (MSCHOA), a website system that allows EU Naval Force to provide Best Management Practice anti piracy advice to commercial shipping and information in the form of warnings and alerts of pirate threats."

* "The establishment of a secure internet based communications system called Mercury also provides connectivity between EU NAVFOR, NATO and CMF as well as an impressive array of international states such as China, India, Japan and Russia."

Oddly, the force continues to list its primary mission as defense of World Food Programme shipments, with a secondary mission "deter and disrupt piracy." Third on its list is "to protect vulnerable shipping." (Press release, 12/10/09)

Incident: Ariana released

2009-12-10T13:03:00.000-05:00

The Greek-owned cargo ship Ariana is released after ransom payment. The Ukrainian crew of 24 was pronounced in good health by a spokesman for Alloceans Shipping, the ship's owners. Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko clled negotiations "very difficult." Unidentified pirate sources disclosed nearly $3 million was paid for the release. (BBC, 12/10/09)

The horrors of Ariana's crew in captivity were widely reported in the Spanish press and unremarked by the BBC in its new reporting. See entries under 11/22/09.

Incident: Bulk carrier fired upon, catches fire

2009-12-07T00:42:00.000-05:00

A bulk carrier, not otherwise identified, is fired upon in the Indian Ocean about 1000 NM east of Mogadishu.

Pirates in two skiffs chased and fired automatic weapons and RPG on a bulk carrier underway because of which a fire broke out on deck. The vessel increased speed and made evasive manoeuvres and sent distress message. The crew managed to contain the fire once the skiffs moved away. Later, the skiffs aborted the attack...

(ICC/IMB Website)

Incident: Crude tanker fired upon

2009-12-07T00:39:00.000-05:00

A crude tanker, not otherwise identified, is fired upon in the Gulf of Aden. Two skiffs had pursued their quarry before opening up with automatic weapons. The tanker successfully applied evasive action.

Incident: Fishing vessel taken

2009-12-06T00:37:00.000-05:00

A fishing vessel with 29 crew is hijacked in the Indian Ocean about 1020 NM northeast of Mogadishu. No details. (ICC/IMB Website)

Incident: General cargo vessel fired upon

2009-12-02T00:35:00.000-05:00

A general cargo vessel, not otherwise identified, is fired upon in the Gulf of Aden. The ship's crew "spotted a mother vessel at a distance of 6nm. The mother vessel was seen to launch two skiffs, which approached the vessel at a speed of 14 knots." the intended victim radioed for help. "The skiff on port side approached the vessel close to 15 meters and fired automatic weapons. Ten minutes later, the skiff aborted the attempt and regrouped with the mother vessel." (ICC/IMB Website)

Incident: Crude tanker fired upon

2009-12-01T00:32:00.000-05:00

A crude tanker, not otherwise identified, is fired upon in the Indian Ocean about 1200 NM northeast of Mogadishu.

Pirates in a skiff armed with guns chased and opened fire on a tanker underway. The pirates attempted to board from port side but failed and then tried to board from stbd side. The use of water jets from fire hoses and evasive manoeuvres made the pirates abort the attempt.

(ICC/IMB Website)

Incident: Maran Centaurus taken

2009-11-30T15:46:00.003-05:00

The Greek-owned tanker Maran Centaurus is captured 800 NM east of Somalia with a load of oil worth $140 million. (Wikipedia, "List of ships attacked by Somali pirates," 12/31/09)

It was en route from Saudi Arabia to the USA and taken by a party of nine men. "The 28 crewmen are safe and well according to a spokesman from the Greek managing company, Maran Tankers Management." (The Times, 12/01/09)

Incident: Ortube Berria chased, fights back

2009-11-30T14:20:00.000-05:00

The Spanish fishing ship Ortube Berria is chased for half an hour in the Indian Ocean by pirates in two skiffs armed with rifles and rocket propelled grenades. "They would not give up. They simply would not give up," the captain said. "If we had not been armed, they would have caught us." Security guards fired upon the pirates, causing them to break off the attack. (AP, 12/02/09)

Incident: Container ship fired upon

2009-11-26T00:27:00.000-05:00

A container ship, not otherwise identified, is fired upon in the Indian Ocean about 470 NM off Mogadishu.

Pirates armed with RPG and machine guns in two skiffs chased and fired upon a container ship underway with intent to hijack her. Master raised alarm, activated SSAS, increased speed and took evasive manoeuvres. The pirates continued to chase and fire at the ship for around three hours before aborting. No injuries to crew.

(ICC/IMB Website)

Incident: Crude tanker fired upon

2009-11-24T00:25:00.000-05:00

A crude tanker, not otherwise identified, is fired upon in the Indian Ocean about 100 NM east of Mogadishu. "Four pirates in a skiff fired upon and attempted to board a tanker underway. Ship sustained damages on stbd side of wheelhouse window. Pirates aborted the attempt after about 35 minutes of chasing. No injuries to crew." (ICC/IMB Website)

Incident: Horrors on Ariana reported

2009-11-22T13:46:00.000-05:00

The captain of the Spanish trawler Alakrana, Ricardo Blach, released 11/17/09 by pirates, "said he is haunted by his failure to save a 12-year-old Ukrainian girl held captive for more than six months."

During his captivity, Blach boarded a second vessel, the cargo ship Ariana, to hand over supplies including medicines and fuel. Somali pirates have been holding the Ariana with its Ukrainian crew for around half a year. On board the ship, Blach saw the blue-eyed Ukrainian girl with her mother and her father, who was a member of the ship's crew. "Her mother begged me to take (her daughter) with me," Blach wrote in his logbook. "I told her that I couldn't. On her ship, the Ariana, there were 12 pirates. On mine, the Alakrana, 30," he said, adding: "I have not stopped thinking about this girl, about the women in this boat."

(AFP, 11/22/09)

In a compilation of Spanish press reports, Wikipedia adds the following details:

One of the abducted women, Larisa Salinska, 39 years old ship's cook, was raped by pirates. Then she had a miscarriage (it is unknown if she became pregnant as a result of the rape or not) with a large hemorrhage, heavy infection, and serious health problems. The Alakrana’s skipper tried to convey to the Ariana medicines to help Salinska, but Adan Jama, one of the pirates who had hijacked the Spanish ship, threw overboard those medicines. Also, according to the testimony ... the girl wich twelve years old was raped by a pirate...

(Wikipedia, "List of ships attacked by Somali pirates," 12/31/09)

Incident: Almezaan released

2009-11-20T15:23:00.000-05:00

The Panama-flagged cargo ship Al Mezaan, taken 11/11, is released by Somali pirates. "It was claimed that it was carrying weapons but this was denied by her owners. A $3,000,000 dollar ransom was demanded, but a lower amount was paid." (Wikipedia, "List of ships attacked by Somali pirates," 12/31/09)

Incident: Bulk carrier fired upon

2009-11-20T00:21:00.000-05:00

A bulk carrier, not otherwise identified, is fired upon in the Indian Ocean by "Eight pirates in one craft and four pirates in another craft, armed with machine guns and RPG."

They fired at the vessel with machine guns and RPG and attempted to board her. Master raised alarm, increased speed made aggressive evasive manoeuvres, crew activated anti-piracy measures and finally managed to evade the attempted boarding. Ship’s bridge glasses damaged and sustained bullet holes around accommodation. No injuries to crew members.

(ICC/IMB Website)

Incident: Crude tanker fired upon

2009-11-20T00:18:00.001-05:00

A crude tanker, not otherwise identified, is chased and fired upon in the Indian Ocean about 1050 NM from Mogadishu.

Six pirate boats with a mother vessel in sight chased and opened fire upon an oil tanker underway. Two RPGs penetrated into port bridge door. Ships sustained damages and one crew was injured. Pirates aborted the attempt after about three hours of chasing.

(ICC/IMB Website)

Incident: Bulk carrier fired upon

2009-11-19T00:06:00.000-05:00

A bulk carrier, not otherwise identified, is fired upon in the Gulf of Aden.

Pirates armed with guns in a boat chased and attempted to board ... Master raised alarm, called warships for assistance, took evasive manoeuvres and crew mustered. The pirates directed searchlight at the ship and suddenly opened fire and ordered the ship to stop ... to conduct search. Master replied, “cannot stop” and continued with the evasive manoeuvres. The pirates finally gave up the chase after 40 minutes. No injuries to crew.

(ICC/IMB Website)

Incident: Hijacked captain dies

2009-11-18T15:39:00.000-05:00

The captain of the Theresa VIII, hijacked 11/05/09, has died of wounds suffered during the hijacking, pirates have told Reuters. "The ship is headed for Harardhere with the dead captain," the source said. No details. (BBC, 11/18/09)

Incident: Maersk Alabama attacked again

2009-11-18T00:03:00.001-05:00

A container ship, not otherwise identified, is fired upon while sailing 600 NM NE of Mogadishu in the Indian Ocean.

Pirates armed with guns chased and fired upon a container ship underway with intent to hijack. Crew took all anti-piracy measures and the onboard security team returned fire. The pirates finally aborted and moved away.

(ICC/IMB Website)

This appears to be the Maersk Alabama, which was hijacked in April. (BBC, 11/18/09)

Incident: Red Sea Spirit attacked

2009-11-17T15:30:00.000-05:00

The Greek owned, Panamanian flagged bulk carrier Red Sea Spirit is taken 36 NM off Balhaf, Yemen. (Reuters, 11/22/09)

"Pirates did not hijack Panama-flagged vessel Red Sea Spirit belonging to Greek company Secure Hold, said Sunday representative of Greek Coast Guard to RIA Novosti." (rusnavy.com, 11/23/09)

Wikipedia shows the ship taken on 11/17/09.

Incident: Alakrana released

2009-11-17T13:41:00.002-05:00

The Spanish trawler Alakrana is released.

Following a request by the Spanish government, Port Victoria has offered safe harbor to the released vessel. The release of the vessel marks the end of protracted negotiations led by the Spanish government in coordination with other partners for the release of the vessel and its crew.

(African Press Office, 11/18/09)

Linked to the negotiations were the fate of two pirates captured and taken to Spain after the incident. Pirates holding Alakrana demanded $4 million and the release of their comrades. The Alakrana crew was released without the pirates being freed. Spanish papers report that pirate families were given $50,000. (Wikipedia, "List of ships attacked by Somali pirates," 12/31/09)

Pirates told reporters $3.5 million was paid. (Reuters via Barcelonareporter.com, undated)

Incident: Chemical tanker taken

2009-11-16T23:54:00.000-05:00

A chemical tanker, not otherwise identified, is hijacked in the Indian Ocean by "pirates armed with machineguns." The captured cre number 28. the strike occured 600 NM southeast of Mogadishu. (ICC/IMB Website)

Incident: General cargo ship fired upon

2009-11-16T00:16:00.000-05:00

A general cargo ship, not otherwise identified, is fired upon in the Gulf of Aden.

Pirates armed with guns in two speed boats chased and fired upon a general cargo ship underway. Ship raised alarm, contacted warships, increased speed and took evasive manoeuvres and finally managed to evade the attempted boarding. No injuries to crew.

(ICC/IMB Website)

Incident: RoRo chased

2009-11-13T00:12:00.000-05:00

A RoRo vessel, not otherwise identified, is chased in the Indian Ocean about 810 NM south of Mogadishu. "Pirates in two small boats armed with guns chased a Ro-Ro ship underway with intent to hijack her. Ship raised alarm, informed flag state authorities who informed the coalition forces." The target vessel evaded boarding via increased speed and evasive action. (ICC/IMB Website)

Incident: Bulk carrier fired upon

2009-11-12T00:10:00.001-05:00

A bulk carrier, not otherwise identified, is fired upon in the Gulf of Aden. Firing with assault rifles preceded a boarding attempt. The intended victim escaped pursuit through evasive action. (ICC/IMB Website)

Incident: Almezaan taken

2009-11-11T15:18:00.000-05:00

The Panama flagged cargo ship Almezaan is taken off the Somali coast. No details. (Wikipedia, "List of ships attacked by Somali pirates," 12/31/09)

Incident: Filitsa taken

2009-11-11T13:11:00.000-05:00

The bulk carrier Filitsa is taken in the Indian Ocean "approximately 500NM northeast of Port Victoria, Seychelles. According to the owners, pirates boarded the vessel and all communication with the crew has ceased. There are 22 crewmembers onboard of Greek and Filipino nationality." (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 11/11/09)The 150 m long ship is registered in the Marshall Islands. (vesseltracker.com)

Incident: Nele Maersk fired upon

2009-11-10T13:20:00.000-05:00

The container ship Nele Maersk is fired upon in the Indian Ocean by men giving chase in two skiffs armed with rifles and rocket propelled grenades. "The vessel increased speed, conducted evasive maneuvers, and successfully deterred the attack after 30 minutes. Coalition forces were informed." The incident occurred "approximately 455NM northeast of Port Victoria, Seychelles." (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 11/11/09)

he Nele Maersk is of Danish registry and is 199 m in length. (vesseltracker.com)

Incident: Felicitas Rickmers fired upon

2009-11-10T13:15:00.000-05:00

The container ship Felicitas Rickmers is fired upon by two skiffs in the Indian Ocean "approximately 500NM southeast of Kismayo, Somalia. The vessel reported being under attack by two skiffs. Shots were fired, but no damage was reported. The vessel conducted evasive maneuvers and prevented being boarded." (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 11/11/09) Felicitas Rickmers is 206 m long and registered in the Marshall Islands. (vesseltracker.com)

Incident: BW Lion fired upon

2009-11-09T13:29:00.000-05:00

The tanker BW Lion is fired upon by men in two skiffs firing rifles and rocket propelled grenades. "The master increased speed, conducted evasive maneuvers, deployed self protection measures, and successfully deterred the attack after one hour. Coalition forces were informed. The vessel sustained minor damages." (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 11/11/09)

BW Lion is registered in Hong Kong. (vesseltracker.com)

Incident: Cargo ship attacked

2009-11-07T12:47:00.001-05:00

Sailing in the Gulf of Aden, a general cargo ship, not otherwise identified, is fired upon by six men in a skiff armed with rifles and rocket propelled grenades. "The men attempted to board the vessel using a ladder but were unable to due to the vessel’s freeboard and effective counter-measure taken by the crew." (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 11/11/09)

Incident: Theresa VIII taken

2009-11-05T15:24:00.001-05:00

The Singapore-flagged chem tanker Theresa VIII is taken "180 nautical miles northwest of the Seychelles, on its way to Mombasa, Kenya. The crew of the vessel was comprised entirely of North Koreans." (Wikipedia, "List of ships attacked by Somali pirates," 12/31/09)

The ship is 56 meters long and flies under Kiribati's colors. (vesseltracker.com)

Incident: Delvina taken

2009-11-05T13:35:00.001-05:00

The bulk carrier Delvina is hijacked in the Indian Ocean "approximately 690NM south of Mogadishu, Somalia. The owners reported the vessel came under attack and was boarded by pirates." (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 11/11/09)

The 190 m long ship is registered in the Marshall Islands (vesseltracker.com)

The Greek-owned ship was en route to Mombasa. (Wikipedia, "List of ships attacked by Somali pirates," 12/31/09)

Incident: Cargo ship attacked

2009-11-05T13:05:00.000-05:00

A general cargo ship sailing the Gulf of Aden (not otherwise identified) is pursued by a speedboat with four armed men aboard who try to board the target vessel. "The men in the speedboat eventually aborted the pursuit due to effective counter-piracy measures." (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 11/11/09)

Incident: BBC Thames attacked

2009-11-05T12:39:00.002-05:00

The Liberian cargo ship BBC Thames is attacked in the Indian Ocean.

EU NAVFOR German warship (FGS BREMEN) was immediately tasked to support the cargo ship and the BREMEN’s helicopter was launched. The attackers fled but BREMEN found a skiff in the vicinity and on sighting the helicopter the skiff stopped. FGS BREMEN conducted a boarding where weapons, ammunition and RPG grenades were found and seized EU NAVFOR German warship (FGS BREMEN) was immediately tasked to support the cargo ship and the BREMEN’s helicopter was launched. The attackers fled but BREMEN found a skiff in the vicinity and on sighting the helicopter the skiff stopped. FGS BREMEN conducted a boarding where weapons, ammunition and RPG grenades were found and seized.

(ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 11/11/09)

Incident: Theoforus I attacked

2009-11-05T12:20:00.002-05:00

The Panamanian flagged bulk carrier Theoforus I is attacked in the Indian Ocean. Pirates armed with rifles and rocket propelled grenades pursue the sip, which evaded the pirates until TCG Ediz arrived, a Turkish warship under NATO command. "The warship neutralized a suspected skiff in the vicinity of the attack position and weapons and pirate paraphernalia were seized." (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 11/11/09)

Incident: Harriette fired upon

2009-11-02T13:45:00.000-05:00

The bulk carrier Harriette is fired upon by twelve armed men in two skiffs giving chase in the Indian Ocean 270 NM off Kismayo. "The men were unable to hook their ladder onto the vessel’s side. The master increased speed and carried out evasive maneuvers while activating fire hoses. After approximately 20 minutes the men abandoned the attempt. The vessel sustained bullet holes but no crewmembers were injured." (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 11/11/09) Harriette is 173 m long and registered in the USA. (vesseltracker.com)

Incident: Jo Cedar fired upon

2009-11-02T13:39:00.000-05:00

The chemical tanker Jo Cedar, sailing the Indian Ocean, is fired upon by armed men in a skiff while men in two additional skiffs stand by. Jo Cedar "increased speed and conducted evasive maneuvers until the skiff abandoned the attack. The ship sustained bullet holes, but no crewmembers were reported injured." The attack occurred 530NM southeast of Mombasa. (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 11/11/09)

Jo Cedar is 183 m long and registered in the Netherlands. (vesseltracker.com)

Incident: Pirates claim success in battle

2009-10-31T15:12:00.000-04:00

Pirates claim to have seized a Yemeni fishing vessel after a gun battle that left one pirate dead and one wounded. The location of the incident was not named and the prize was taken to Eyl. (Reuters, 10/31/09)

Incident: Avel Vad fired upon

2009-10-31T13:49:00.002-04:00

The fishing vessel Avel Vad, while in the Indian Ocean 370NM east of Mogadishu, is chased and fired upon by men in two blue skiffs. "They aborted the attack after warning shots were returned from a security team onboard the fishing vessel." (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 11/11/09)

"Soldiers aboard the [French] tuna boat fired fireworks and warning shots at the pirates, scaring them off." (SAPA)

Incident: Bulk carrier fired upon

2009-10-31T13:07:00.000-04:00

A bulk carrier in the Gulf of Aden, not otherwise identified, is fired upon by men in two skiffs: "due to effective counter piracy measures, the two skiffs aborted the attempt and moved away." (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 11/11/09)

Incident: Thai Union taken

2009-10-29T14:02:00.000-04:00

A fishing vessel, the Thai Union, is taken by pirates in the Indian Ocean 165 NM north of Port Victoria, the Seychelles.

Armed pirates in two skiffs approached the vessel from both sides. The vessel took evasive maneuvers and sent a distress message which was received by the IMB Piracy Reporting Centre and relayed to coalition naval forces to render assistance. A warship was dispatched to the location, but the pirates were able to board and hijack the vessel.

(ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 11/11/09)

Incident: Cap Saint Vincent attacked

2009-10-27T12:42:00.002-04:00

The European Union Naval Force reports pirates in two skiffs attack the French fishing vessel Cap Saint Vincent in the Indian Ocean 350 miles off Mogadishu.

French military personnel aboard the trawler ... returned fire, French military spokesman Rear Adm. Christophe Prazuck said. It did not appear that any of the shots hit the pirates, he said. A German warship was dispatched to the scene, as was a helicopter, which fired warning shots at the pirates, who then were seen throwing items overboard. Once the warship arrived, seven pirates were detained, the EU Naval Force said. "We've got them on board and we will prosecute them."

(ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 11/11/09)

Incident: Container ship fired upon

2009-10-25T14:14:00.000-04:00

A container ship, not otherwise identified, is fired upon by "six men armed with machineguns" in a white speedboat after a chase. "The master raised the alarm, conducted counter-piracy preventive measures, and increased to maximum speed. At
a distance of about three cables, the men started firing at the vessel. The men eventually aborted the attack, and the vessel continued underway at maximum speed." The incident occurred 350 NM SE of Mombasa in the Indian Ocean. (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 11/11/09)

Incident: Lynn Rival taken

2009-10-23T14:19:00.002-04:00

The sailboat Lynn Rival is hijacked 60NM west of Port Victoria, the Seychelles, en route to Tanzania. (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 11/11/09)

Authorities later confirmed that a yacht towing a skiff is the Lynn Rival and Somali officials say that the couple aboard the craft are being held hostage in Harardhere. (Guardian, 10/29/09)

Lynn Rival was sailing from the Seychelles to Tanzania. The crew was moved to another hijacked vessel,

the container ship MV Kota Wajah moored off Ceel Huur, Somalia. It was later revealed that Royal Navy personnel on board RFA Wave Knight witnessed the transfer of the two crew from the Lynn Rival, but did not intervene for fear of causing casualties among the kidnapped couple. A ransom of $7,000,000 (£4,300,000) has been demanded.

(Wikipedia, "List of ships attacked by Somali pirates," 12/31/09)

Incident: Jolly Rosso fired upon

2009-10-22T14:40:00.000-04:00

The RoRo ship Jolly Rosso is fired upon by men in two skiffs armed with rifles and rocket propelled grenades while sailing the Indian Ocean 320 NM southeast of Kismayo, Kenya. The ship increased speed and began evasive action after which the attack was broken off.(ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 11/11/09)

Jolly Rosso is registered in Italy. (vesseltracking.com)

Incident: Al Khaliq taken

2009-10-22T14:32:00.001-04:00

The bulk carrier Al Khaliq is taken by hijackers with 26 crew aboard after a chase by six pirates on two skiffs. The pirates were armed with rifles and rocket propelled grenades which they fired at their target. (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 11/11/09)

Al Khaliq is 179 m long and registered in Panama. (vesseltracker.com)

The ship is Indian owned and was en route from Novorossiysk, Russia to Mombasa, Kenya. (Wikipedia, "List of ships attacked by Somali pirates," 12/31/09)

Incident: De Xin Hai taken

2009-10-19T11:52:00.000-04:00

The bulk carrier De Xin Hai is taken by pirates in the Indian Ocean "approximately 325NM northeast of Port Victoria, Seychelles. Pirates boarded and hijacked the vessel while underway. There are 25 crew members onboard." (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 10/21/09)

De Xin Hai is a 225 m long cargo ship registered in China. (vesseltracker.com)

Incident: Thor Spring attacked

2009-10-16T11:27:00.001-04:00

The general cargo ship Thor Spring is attacked in the Gulf of Aden by five to six men pursuing their target in a skiff. The pirates fired upon Thor Spring, damaging "funnel, stern area, and accommodation," but gave up their pursuit after 40 minutes. The cargo ship's crew activated fire hoses and strung barbed wire along the railing as the captain took evasive action. (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 10/21/09) Thor Spring is 73 m long and registered in Malta. (vesseltracker.com)

Incident: Koto Wajar taken

2009-10-15T11:56:00.001-04:00

The container ship Koto Wajar is taken "approximately 190NM north of Port Victoria, Seychelles. Owners of the vessel received a call stating that the vessel has been attacked and hijacked." No details. (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 10/21/09)

Incident: Vessel pursued

2009-10-12T11:39:00.000-04:00

A vessel sailing the Gulf of Aden, not otherwise identified, is approached by a fishing craft which then launches a blue and white skiff containing five armed men. "The skiff approached the vessel with a speed of approximately 20 kts but stopped and abandoned the pursuit at a distance of 0.2NM. The incident lasted approximately 25 minutes." (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 10/21/09)

Incident: Container ship pursued

2009-10-11T11:23:00.000-04:00

Six men in masks use a 21-foot white speedboat to pursue a container ship, not otherwise identified, in the Gulf of Oman 30 NM from Jask, Iran. After forty minuted of evasive action by the target, the attack was broken off. (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 10/21/09)

Incident: Fishing vessels fired upon

2009-10-10T11:58:00.000-04:00

The fishing vessels Drennec and Glenan are attacked an hour apart 160-165 NM off Port Victoria, Seychelles. Drennec was attacked first:

Vessel reported coming under fire from two skiffs, one white and one blue. A security team onboard the fishing vessel returned fire, forcing the skiffs to abandon the attack. Coast guard vessels from the nearby Seychelles archipelago pursued one of the skiffs and disabled the engine.

An hour later Glenan

reported coming under fire from two skiffs, shortly after the skiffs reportedly opened fire on the fishing vessel (DRENNEC). A security team onboard fired warning shots, forcing the skiffs to abandon the attack.

(ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 10/21/09)

Drennec and Glenan were fishing for Tuna and each had a detail of French marines providing security.

It seems to be clear that the French marines on board of re-flagged French vessels now sailing under the flag of the Seychelles have the authority to use military force and firearms inside the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of the Seychelles. Some maritime lawyers however foresee legal complications with the use of firearms by the French against Somali nationals in Somali vessels, within or outside the Seychelles EEZ.

(ECOTERRA – SMCM, 10/13/09)

Incident: Tanker pursued

2009-10-07T11:42:00.001-04:00

A tanker in the Gulf of Aden, not otherwise identified, is pursued by men in three skiffs. "The vessel increased speed, conducted evasive maneuvers, and enforced counter-piracy measures while contacting coalition forces. The skiffs eventually aborted their pursuit and moved away." (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 10/21/09)

Incident: Pirates attack French naval ship

2009-10-06T11:18:00.000-04:00

The French navy's 3,800-ton refueling ship La Somme is fired upon by five Somali pirates while sailing the Indian Ocean. The pirates mistook the vessel for a civilian target and were taken prisoner. (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 10/21/09)

Incident: Bulk carrier fired upon

2009-10-05T23:48:00.000-04:00

A bulk carrier, not otherwise identified, is fired upon in the Gulf of Aden during a boarding attempt by five armed pirates in two skiffs.

Alarm raised and evasive manoeuvres carried out, parachute signals fired, SSAS activated and coalition warship contacted. Pirates fired a RPG, which damaged the starboard bridge wing and captains office. Pirates aborted the attempt to board. Later a warship and aircraft arrived and chased the pirate boats.

(ICC/IMB Website)

Incident: Horizon 1 released

2009-10-05T14:12:00.002-04:00

The Turkish cargo ship Horizon 1 has been released following payment of a $2.75 million ransom by a British negotiator. Horizon 1 had been taken on July 8. (Wikipedia, "List of ships attacked by Somali pirates," 12/31/09)

According to a Turkish-language article in the newspaper Hurriyet,

While the ship's owner gave permission to the Turkish Navy for freeing the vessel and her crew by forced intervention, the Turkish government rejected this option due to lack of procedures in case of getting hold of the pirates. The Turkish officials rather preferred to contact Kenyan authorities for legal assistance, who have more experience in handling pirates from Somalia.

("MV Horizon-1," Wikipedia, 12/31/09)

Incident: Hoegh Pusan fired upon

2009-10-04T12:11:00.001-04:00

Hoegh Pusan, a vehicle carrier, is fired upon in the Indian Ocean 150 NM north of the Seychelles.

Two unlit boats chased the vessel from astern and opened fire. The master increased speed, conducted evasive maneuvers, started the fire pump and switched on all deck lights. The master contacted coalition forces, increased speed, headed into the wind and activated the SSAS alarm. After approximately 10 minutes, the boats fell behind and the vessel moved away. No injuries to the crew were reported.

(ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 10/21/09) Hoegh Pusan, 178 m in length, is registered in Singapore. (vesseltracker.com)

Incident: Alakrana taken

2009-10-02T12:17:00.001-04:00

The fishing ship Alakrana is taken while 330NM southeast of Mogadishu. "Armed pirates attacked and hijacked the vessel. The vessel is currently anchored off the coast of Harardhere." (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 10/21/09)

"Two pirates were seized and brought to Spain. Pirates demanded both a four million Euro ransom and for the two pirates to be released." (Wikipedia, "List of ships attacked by Somali pirates," 12/31/09)

Incident: Attack on bulk carrier thwarted

2009-09-26T16:24:00.000-04:00

A bulk carrier in the Gulf of Aden, not otherwise identified, is chased by armed men. The carrier, adopting evasive action, notifies Coalition forces, which send a helicopter to drive off the pursuers. (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 9/30/09)

Incident: Bulk carrier fired upon

2009-09-26T16:21:00.000-04:00

A bulk carrier, not otherwise identified, was fired upon in the Gulf of Aden by four armed men giving chase. "The vessel master increased speed, conducted evasive maneuvers and alerted coalition forces. The armed men fled the area upon the arrival of a coalition warship." (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 9/30/09)

Incident: Bulk carrier fired upon

2009-09-26T16:13:00.002-04:00

A bulk carrier, not otherwise identified, is fired upon by eight men in two fast craft in the Gulf of Aden displaying intention to board.

The master raised the alarm, conducted evasive maneuvers, fired parachute flares, activated the SSAS and contacted coalition warships on VHF radio seeking assistance. Sea water was run on deck and the crew locked themselves in the bridge. The armed men began firing at the bridge before aborting the attempt when a coalition warship arrived on scene. A coalition helicopter surveyed the bulk carrier to assure no pirates were on board before the vessel resumed course

. (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 9/30/09)

Incident: Captain killed by gunfire

2009-09-24T11:44:00.000-04:00

The captain of the Barwaqo is killed near the port of Mogadishu. "According to local authorities, armed gangs attacked the vessel as it was heading into port. Local police were called in and an exchange in gunfire occurred in which the vessel’s captain was killed. Police were able to thwart the attackers and the vessel was towed into port." (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 10/21/09)

Incident: Armed guards fire upon pirates

2009-09-20T23:42:00.000-04:00

A general cargo vessel, not otherwise identified, is approached in the Gulf of Aden by seven armed men in a skiff.

Ship activated anti piracy measures, armed guards onboard exchanged fire with the pirates. The pirates aborted the attempt were seen heading towards the Yemeni coast. All ships in the vicinity and coalition warship were informed via VHF radio.

(ICC/IMB Website)

Incident: BBC Portugal rescued by Australians

2009-09-20T15:49:00.001-04:00

An Australian warship intercepts a Somali pirate craft "stalking" the BBC Portugal in the Gulf of Aden.

Commander Ivan Ingham said officers from his ship (HMAS TOOWOOMBA) boarded the pirate ship after responding to a distress call in the Gulf on Sunday night. A surveillance plane and helicopter sent ahead of the (TOOWOOMBA) confirmed reports from the merchant ship (BBC PORTUGAL) that it was being chased by a high-speed vessel full of armed men, he said. "On reaching the suspect vessel, Toowoomba launched her boarding team to investigate, search, disarm and seize," Ingham said. "The boarding party was instructed to disarm the suspect pirates and confiscate their lethal military weapons." A rocket-propelled grenade launcher, six AK47 assault rifles and a G3 assault rifle were taken, as well as a large quantity of ammunition. The men said they were from Somalia but denied planning to attack the (BBC PORTUGAL), despite being seen disposing of a ladder as the helicopter and plane approached, Ingham said. Once the pirate ship had been cleared of weapons he said the (TOOWOOMBA) confirmed it had sufficient food, water and fuel for the return journey to Somalia and ordered them out of the shipping zone. It was the ship's first such encounter since arriving in the Gulf of Aden from the Northern Arabian Sea on a counter-piracy mission two weeks ago, he added.

(ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 9/30/09)

Incident: Bulk carrier fired upon

2009-09-19T16:34:00.001-04:00

A bulk carrier, not otherwise identified, is fired upon in the Gulf of Aden by seven men in a white skiff who attempted to board but were deterred by evasive action. A coalition helicopter's arrival caused the attackers to break off. (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 9/30/09)

Six pirates "armed with guns"

in a small white coloured speedboat, attempted to attack a bulk carrier underway in a convoy with two other ships. Master altered course, contacted coalition warships for assistance and crew activated anti-piracy measures. Pirates chased the ship for 20 minutes and aborted the attempt upon arrival of a coalition helicopter.

(ICC/IMB Website)

Incident: Container vessel evades boarding

2009-09-18T23:39:00.000-04:00

A container vessel operating in the Gulf of Aden but not otherwise identified is approached by men "in a small boat" to a distance of five meters. "Alarm raised and crew alerted. Pirates aborted the attempt..." (ICC/IMB Website)

Incident: Crude tanker chased

2009-09-16T23:37:00.000-04:00

A crude tanker operating in the Red Sea (not otherwise identified) is chased by two high speed craft. "The tanker altered course to keep the boats in the wake. Later the boats aborted the attempt." (ICC/IMB Website)

Incident: Irene released

2009-09-14T12:10:00.001-04:00

The cargo ship Irene, captured on 9/14/09, is released after payment of a reported $2 million ransom. (Wikipedia, "List of ships attacked by Somali pirates," 12/31/09)

Incident: Warning issued to mariners

2009-09-09T15:27:00.000-04:00

With the end of the monsoon season, the the US Department of Transportation's Maritime Administration has warned of an increase in Somali piracy.

“We must apply the lessons learned from the crew of the Maersk Alabama,” said Acting Maritime Administrator David Matsuda, referring to the U.S. crew that escaped pirates last spring. “We are urging mariners to take defensive measures and not surrender at the first sign of a threat.” The advisory not only warns vessels to avoid routes where attacks have taken place, but also recommends that mariners “demonstrate a willingness to defend yourself.” Today’s update encourages mariners to travel at “maximum sustainable speed” through “high threat areas” and to continually conduct risk assessments during their voyage. The advisory also gives mariners information on how best to check in with authorities and how to request escort service in a convoy.

(ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 8/19/09)

Incident: Swiss to battle Somali piracy

2009-09-08T15:36:00.002-04:00

The Swiss Senate has approved plans to send an anti-piracy force of about 30 specialists ("including special troops, medical personnel and experts on international law") "to protect ships transporting supplies of the UN World Food Programme to developing countries" off Somalia. They will join EU forces in the Gulf of Aden. (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 9/9/09)

Incident: Cargo ship crew battles pirates

2009-09-05T23:34:00.000-04:00

A general cargo ship, not otherwise identified, is attacked in port by armed men.

Ten heavily armed robbers in two speedboats opened fire at a general cargo ship carrying out repairs to her engines at anchorage. Crew threw molotov cocktails and signal rockets at the speedboats. One crew injured. Vessel sustained damages.

(ICC/IMB Website)

Incident: Vessel fired upon

2009-08-27T15:45:00.000-04:00

A vessel, not otherwise identified, is fired upon by four skiff launching rocket propelled grenades while sailing the Indian Ocean 140 NM northeast of Kismayo, Somalia. A US warship launched a helicopter to assist, which arrived after the attack was aborted. (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 9/9/09)

Incident: Cargo ship fired upon

2009-08-26T23:31:00.000-04:00

A cargo ship, not otherwise identified, is fired upon in the Gulf of Aden by "armed pirates in a skiff" after a chase.

Alarm raised, crew mustered, evasive manoeuvres made and distress signal sent on VHF Ch. 16. A warship and a military helicopter arrived at location to render assistance.

(ICC/IMB Website)

Incident: Vessel fired upon

2009-08-26T15:42:00.000-04:00

A vessel, not otherwise identified, was fired upon in the Gulf of Aden "by one small cargo vessel with a blue hull with 14 people onboard. The vessel changed course and managed to evade the attack." (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 9/9/09)

Incident: US promises air cover for Seychelles

2009-08-19T14:12:00.002-04:00

The US African command, AFRICOM, announced if will be supplying drone aircraft patrols over the waters surrounding the Seychelles as well as P-3 Orion maritime patrols. (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 8/19/09)

Incident: NATO launches Ocean Shield operation

2009-08-17T14:44:00.001-04:00

NATO's Ocean Shield operation begins off the Horn of Africa.

"No timeframe has been set for this long-term operation, which will last as long as it's deemed necessary," Major Stefano Sbaccanti, a spokesman from the alliance's Joint Command Lisbon, told AFP. It takes over from NATO's sea-based operation Allied Protector, launched last year, but with a new mandate to also "assist regional states, upon their request, in developing their own ability to combat piracy," a statement said. The operation "will contribute to a lasting maritime security solution off the Horn of Africa," NATO said. NATO's Joint Command Lisbon is in overall command, with day-to-day operations controlled out of the alliance's Maritime Component Command Headquarters Northwood in Britain. British, Greek, Italian, Turkish and US warships are involved in Ocean Shield, but "other countries are thinking of coming to reinforce the operation which could evolve at any moment," Sbaccanti said."

(AFP via ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 8/19/09)

Incident: Cargo ship attacked

2009-08-16T15:14:00.000-04:00

A general cargo ship, not otherwise identified, escapes attack by two skiffs launched from a mother ship in the Indian Ocean. The attack was made with automatic weapons and a rocket propelled grenade some 320 NM off Garacad. "Due to effective defense measures by the crew and unfavorable weather conditions, the vessel was
able to escape." (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 8/19/09)

Incident: Bulk carrier fired upon

2009-08-14T23:28:00.000-04:00

A bulk carrier, not otherwise identified, is fired upon in the Gulf of Aden.

Five pirates armed with automatic guns and RPG in a speed boat fired upon a bulk carrier underway. Master took evasive manoeuvres to deter the pirates from boarding the ship. A coalition helicopter arrived at the scene after 40 minutes and the pirates moved way. One crew injured. The master was instructed to rendezvous with a coalition warship, which sent some troops and a doctor to treat the injured crew.

(ICC/IMB Website)

Note: this report could refer to the attack on the Elgiznur Cebi on the same date.

Incident: Elgiznur Cebi attacked

2009-08-14T14:47:00.001-04:00

The Turkish ship Elgiznur Cebi is attacked in the Gulf of Aden by a speedboat with six men and a ladder aboard. A German helicopter from the warship Bremen fired upon the speedboat; the Greek warship Narvarinon boarded the speedboat and confiscated its ladder and weapons. (ONI Worldwide Threat to Shipping, 8/19/09)

Elgiznur Cebi is a 190 m long cargo ship. (vesseltracker.com)

Incident: Captives overpower pirates

2009-08-13T12:14:00.000-04:00

The crews of the hijacked Egyptian fishing vessels Mumtaz 1 and Samara Ahmed, taken 4/14/09, coordinate an attack on their pirate captors holding them in the port of Las Qorey. Using machetes and tools against their captors, they are able to disarm them, killing two, injuring an unknown number, and taking four prisoners without suffering casualties of their own. Both fishing ships were sailed to safety in Aden, Yemen, by their crews. ("August 2009 Egyptian hostage escape," Wikipedia, 12/31/09)

Incident: Turks detain suspected pirates

2009-08-11T22:25:00.005-04:00

Five men are detained on a Turkish frigate after shadowing two commercial vessels in the Gulf of Aden's maritime patrol zone. (SETimes.com, 08/12/09)

The Gaziantep used commandos and one or more helicopters to make the arrest. Pirate equipment was found aboard the skiff operated by the arrested men. (AFP, 08/11/09)

Incident: Hansa Stavanger released

2009-08-10T22:38:00.001-04:00

The Hansa Stavanger, captured April 4th, is released by Somali pirates. The 24-man crew was described as being in good condition. (AP, 08/10/09) A $2.7 million ransom was paid to release the ship and crew. (Reuters, 08/03/09)

Incident: Buccanneer freed

2009-08-09T23:08:00.002-04:00

The Italian tug Buccaneer and its crew of 16 is released after having been hijacked on April 11. A ransom of $2 million was reportedly paid. (Press TV, 08/11/09) One of the pirates involved said a ransom of $4 million was paid, however Italy's "Foreign Minister Franco Frattini and the ship’s owner denied a claim by the pirates that a ransom was paid." (Bloomberg, 08/10/09) Somalia's Governor Mohamed Said Nur of Sanag says no ransom was paid but that the pirates were reimbursed the cost of "sustain[ing] the 16-member crew" - $270,000. (AP, 08/11/09)