Pirates & Piracy Laws, Warnings, Events

[awakening2lite]

EXCERPT from: United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea - Part VII

Article100

Duty to cooperate in the repression of piracy

All States shall cooperate to the fullest possible extent in the repression of piracy on the high seas or in any other place outside the jurisdiction of any State.

Article101

Definition of piracy

Piracy consists of any of the following acts:

(a) any illegal acts of violence or detention, or any act of depredation, committed for private ends by the crew or the passengers of a private ship or a private aircraft, and directed:

(i) on the high seas, against another ship or aircraft, or against persons or property on board such ship or aircraft;

(ii) against a ship, aircraft, persons or property in a place outside the jurisdiction of any State;

(b) any act of voluntary participation in the operation of a ship or of an aircraft with knowledge of facts making it a pirate ship or aircraft;

(c) any act of inciting or of intentionally facilitating an act described in subparagraph (a) or (b).

Article102

Piracy by a warship, government ship or government aircraft

whose crew has mutinied

The acts of piracy, as defined in article 101, committed by a warship, government ship or government aircraft whose crew has mutinied and taken control of the ship or aircraft are assimilated to acts committed by a private ship or aircraft.

Article103

Definition of a pirate ship or aircraft

A ship or aircraft is considered a pirate ship or aircraft if it is intended by the persons in dominant control to be used for the purpose of committing one of the acts referred to in article 101. The same applies if the ship or aircraft has been used to commit any such act, so long as it remains under the control of the persons guilty of that act.

Article104

Retention or loss of the nationality of a pirate ship or aircraft

A ship or aircraft may retain its nationality although it has become a pirate ship or aircraft. The retention or loss of nationality is determined by the law of the State from which such nationality was derived.

Article105

Seizure of a pirate ship or aircraft

On the high seas, or in any other place outside the jurisdiction of any State, every State may seize a pirate ship or aircraft, or a ship or aircraft taken by piracy and under the control of pirates, and arrest the persons and seize the property on board. The courts of the State which carried out the seizure may decide upon the penalties to be imposed, and may also determine the action to be taken with regard to the ships, aircraft or property, subject to the rights of third parties acting in good faith.

Article106

Liability for seizure without adequate grounds

Where the seizure of a ship or aircraft on suspicion of piracy has been effected without adequate grounds, the State making the seizure shall be liable to the State the nationality of which is possessed by the ship or aircraft for any loss or damage caused by the seizure.

Article107

Ships and aircraft which are entitled to seize on account of piracy

A seizure on account of piracy may be carried out only by warships or military aircraft, or other ships or aircraft clearly marked and identifiable as being on government service and authorized to that effect.

Article108

Illicit traffic in narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances

1. All States shall cooperate in the suppression of illicit traffic in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances engaged in by ships on the high seas contrary to international conventions.

2. Any State which has reasonable grounds for believing that a ship flying its flag is engaged in illicit traffic in narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances may request the cooperation of other States to suppress such traffic.

Article109

Unauthorized broadcasting from the high seas

1. All States shall cooperate in the suppression of unauthorized broadcasting from the high seas.

2. For the purposes of this Convention, "unauthorized broadcasting" means the transmission of sound radio or television broadcasts from a ship or installation on the high seas intended for reception by the general public contrary to international regulations, but excluding the transmission of distress calls.

3. Any person engaged in unauthorized broadcasting may be prosecuted before the court of:

(a) the flag State of the ship;

(b) the State of registry of the installation;

(c) the State of which the person is a national;

(d) any State where the transmissions can be received; or

(e) any State where authorized radio communication is suffering interference.

4. On the high seas, a State having jurisdiction in accordance with paragraph 3 may, in conformity with article 110, arrest any person or ship engaged in unauthorized broadcasting and seize the broadcasting apparatus.

Article110

Right of visit

1. Except where acts of interference derive from powers conferred by treaty, a warship which encounters on the high seas a foreign ship, other than a ship entitled to complete immunity in accordance with articles 95 and 96, is not justified in boarding it unless there is reasonable ground for suspecting that:

(a) the ship is engaged in piracy;

(b) the ship is engaged in the slave trade;

(c) the ship is engaged in unauthorized broadcasting and the flag State of the warship has jurisdiction under article 109;

(d) the ship is without nationality; or

(e) though flying a foreign flag or refusing to show its flag, the ship is, in reality, of the same nationality as the warship.

2. In the cases provided for in paragraph 1, the warship may proceed to verify the ship's right to fly its flag. To this end, it may send a boat under the command of an officer to the suspected ship. If suspicion remains after the documents have been checked, it may proceed to a further examination on board the ship, which must be carried out with all possible consideration.

3. If the suspicions prove to be unfounded, and provided that the ship boarded has not committed any act justifying them, it shall be compensated for any loss or damage that may have been sustained.

4. These provisions apply mutatis mutandis to military aircraft.

5. These provisions also apply to any other duly authorized ships or aircraft clearly marked and identifiable as being on government service.

Article111

Right of hot pursuit

1. The hot pursuit of a foreign ship may be undertaken when the competent authorities of the coastal State have good reason to believe that the ship has violated the laws and regulations of that State. Such pursuit must be commenced when the foreign ship or one of its boats is within the internal waters, the archipelagic waters, the territorial sea or the contiguous zone of the pursuing State, and may only be continued outside the territorial sea or the contiguous zone if the pursuit has not been interrupted. It is not necessary that, at the time when the foreign ship within the territorial sea or the contiguous zone receives the order to stop, the ship giving the order should likewise be within the territorial sea or the contiguous zone. If the foreign ship is within a contiguous zone, as defined in article 33, the pursuit may only be undertaken if there has been a violation of the rights for the protection of which the zone was established.

2. The right of hot pursuit shall apply mutatis mutandis to violations in the exclusive economic zone or on the continental shelf, including safety zones around continental shelf installations, of the laws and regulations of the coastal State applicable in accordance with this Convention to the exclusive economic zone or the continental shelf, including such safety zones.

3. The right of hot pursuit ceases as soon as the ship pursued enters the territorial sea of its own State or of a third State.

4. Hot pursuit is not deemed to have begun unless the pursuing ship has satisfied itself by such practicable means as may be available that the ship pursued or one of its boats or other craft working as a team and using the ship pursued as a mother ship is within the limits of the territorial sea, or, as the case may be, within the contiguous zone or the exclusive economic zone or above the continental shelf. The pursuit may only be commenced after a visual or auditory signal to stop has been given at a distance which enables it to be seen or heard by the foreign ship.

5. The right of hot pursuit may be exercised only by warships or military aircraft, or other ships or aircraft clearly marked and identifiable as being on government service and authorized to that effect.

6. Where hot pursuit is effected by an aircraft:

(a) the provisions of paragraphs 1 to 4 shall apply mutatis mutandis;

(b) the aircraft giving the order to stop must itself actively pursue the ship until a ship or another aircraft of the coastal State, summoned by the aircraft, arrives to take over the pursuit, unless the aircraft is itself able to arrest the ship. It does not suffice to justify an arrest outside the territorial sea that the ship was merely sighted by the aircraft as an offender or suspected offender, if it was not both ordered to stop and pursued by the aircraft itself or other aircraft or ships which continue the pursuit without interruption.

7. The release of a ship arrested within the jurisdiction of a State and escorted to a port of that State for the purposes of an inquiry before the competent authorities may not be claimed solely on the ground that the ship, in the course of its voyage, was escorted across a portion of the exclusive economic zone or the high seas, if the circumstances rendered this necessary.

8. Where a ship has been stopped or arrested outside the territorial sea in circumstances which do not justify the exercise of the right of hot pursuit, it shall be compensated for any loss or damage that may have been thereby sustained.

source: http://www.un.org/Depts/los/convention_agreements/texts/unclos/part7.htm

[awakening2lite]

EXCERPT

Piracy is a robbery committed at sea, or sometimes on the shore, without a commission from a sovereign nation (robbery with sovereign commission is privateering, and distinct from piracy). Seaborne piracy against transport vessels remains a significant issue (with estimated worldwide losses of US $13 to $16 billion per year[1][2]), particularly in the waters between the Pacific and Indian Oceans, off the Somali coast, and also in the Strait of Malacca and Singapore, which are used by over 50,000 commercial ships a year. A recent[3] surge in piracy off the Somali coast spurred a multi-national effort led by the United States to patrol the waters near the Horn of Africa to combat piracy. While boats off the coasts of North Africa and the Mediterranean Sea are still assailed by pirates, the Royal Navy and the U.S. Coast Guard have nearly eradicated piracy in U.S. waters and in the Caribbean Sea.

source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piracy

[awakening2lite]

EXCERPT

Modern Piracy

Modern pirates favor small boats and taking advantage of the small crew numbers on modern cargo vessels. Modern pirates can be successful because a large amount of international commerce occurs via shipping. For commercial reasons, many cargo ships move through narrow bodies of water (such as the Suez Canal, the Panama Canal, and the Strait of Malacca) making them vulnerable to be overtaken and boarded by small motorboats. Other active areas include the South China Sea and the Niger Delta. As usage increases, many of these ships have to lower cruising speeds to allow for navigation and traffic control, making them prime targets for piracy. Small ships are also capable of disguising themselves as fishing vessels or cargo vessels when not carrying out piracy in order to avoid or deceive inspectors.[citations needed]

Also, pirates often operate in regions of developing or struggling countries with smaller navies and large trade routes. Pirates sometimes evade capture by sailing into waters controlled by their pursuer's enemies. With the end of the Cold War, navies have decreased size and patrol, and trade has increased, making organized piracy far easier. Modern pirates are sometimes linked with organized-crime syndicates, but often are parts of small individual groups. Pirate attack crews may consist of 4 to 10 sailors for going after a ship's safe (raiding) or up to 70 (depending entirely on the ships and the ships crew size) if the plan is to seize the whole vessel.[citations needed]

The International Maritime Bureau (IMB) maintains statistics regarding pirate attacks dating back to 1995. Their records indicate hostage-taking overwhelmingly dominates the types of violence against seafarers. For example in 2006, there were 239 attacks, 77 crew members were kidnapped and 188 taken hostage but only 15 of the pirate attacks resulted in murder.[23] In 2007 the attacks rose by 10% to 263 attacks. There was a 35% increase on reported attacks involving guns. Crew members that were injured was 64 compared to the 17 in 2006.[24] That number does not include hostages/kidnapping where they were not injured.

In some cases, modern pirates are not interested in the cargo and are mainly interested in taking the personal belongings of the crew and the contents of the ship's safe, which might contain large amounts of cash needed for payroll and port fees. In other cases, the pirates force the crew off the ship and then sail it to a port to be repainted and given a new identity through false papers often purchased from corrupt or complicit officials.[25]

Modern piracy can also take place in conditions of political unrest. For example, following the US withdrawal from Vietnam, Thai piracy was aimed at the many Vietnamese who took to boats to escape. Further, following the disintegration of the government of Somalia, warlords in the region have attacked ships delivering UN food aid.[26]

Environmental action groups such as Sea Shepherd have been accused of engaging in piracy and terrorism when they sink ships with mines, scuttle them, or ram them and throw butyric acid on their crews; although they carry firearms, they are not known to have fired them during attacks.[27][28]

The attack against the U.S. cruise ship the Seabourn Spirit offshore of Somalia in November 2005 is an example of the sophisticated pirates mariners face. The pirates carried out their attack more than 100 miles (160 km) offshore with speedboats launched from a larger mother ship. The attackers were armed with automatic firearms and an RPG.[29]

Many nations forbid ships to enter their territorial waters or ports if the crew of the ships are armed in an effort to restrict possible piracy.[30] Shipping companies sometimes hire private security guards.

Modern definitions of piracy include the following acts:

* Kidnapping of people for ransom
* Robbery
* Murder
* Seizure of items or the ship
* Sabotage resulting in the ship subsequently sinking

In modern times, ships and airplanes are hijacked for political reasons as well. The perpetrators of these acts could be described as pirates (for instance, the French for "plane hijacker" is pirate de l'air, literally "air pirate"), but in English are usually termed "hijackers". An example is the hijacking of the Italian civilian passenger ship Achille Lauro, which is generally regarded as an act of piracy.

Modern pirates also use a great deal of technology. It has been reported that crimes of piracy have involved the use of mobile phones, modern speedboats, assault rifles, shotguns, pistols, mounted machine guns, and even RPGs and grenade launchers.

source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piracy

[awakening2lite]

Live Piracy Map

http://i244.photobucket.com/albums/gg21/awakening2lite/Piracymap.jpg

Click here for updated map and Key:http://www.icc-ccs.org/extra/display.php?yr=2008

IMB Piracy Reporting Centre

Overview

A major part of the IMB’s work to make shipping safer involves assisting in the suppression of piracy and armed robbery against ships around the world.

In 1992, the escalating number of piracy incidents led to the establishment of a Piracy Reporting Centre in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Its job is to raise awareness of piracy hotspots, detail specific attacks and their consequences, and investigate incidents of piracy and armed robbery at sea and in port. Another role entails working with national governments on a range of initiatives to reduce and ultimately eradicate attacks against ships.

The Centre, managed by the IMB, has enjoyed considerable success over the years and has made huge strides towards meeting its objectives to reduce piracy and in increasing general awareness of the problem.

source: http://www.icc-ccs.org/prc/overview.php

[awakening2lite]

Africa remains hotspot for pirate attacks: IMB

6 hours ago

http://afp.google.com/media/ALeqM5gAfqMkKKsTLCuoTS6b8WosGldFNw?size=m
A Somali gunman carries a Russian-made long range machinegun

KUALA LUMPUR (AFP) — Africa remains a piracy hotspot following a spike in attacks in the second quarter of 2008, a marine watchdog said Friday, with Somali and Nigerian waters the most dangerous for seafarers.

The International Maritime Bureau (IMB) recorded 114 pirate attacks worldwide in the first six months of 2008, slightly less than 126 incidents last year but noted that attacks have been increasing quarter by quarter.

"The frequency and level of violence directed at seafarers is cause for alarm. The abduction of crew and the increasing use of automatic weapons remain unacceptable," London-based IMB director Pottengal Mukundan said in a statement.

In the second quarter of 2008, there were 62 reported pirate attacks worldwide, compared with 52 in the first three months. Somalia recorded 24 of the attacks, the highest in the period, followed by Nigeria with 18.

"The rise is directly attributed to increased pirate activity off Somalia and the Gulf of Aden particularly," the IMB report said.

Of the 24 Somali attacks, 19 occurred in the Gulf of Aden off the north coast, from only seven in the same period last year.

It is now the number one piracy hotspot in the world this quarter.

"In the Gulf of Aden at least eight vessels reported being fired upon by pirates armed with rocket-propelled grenade launchers and automatic weapons," the IMB said.

Most of the Nigerian attacks occurred off Lagos -- an increasingly dangerous port.

Indonesia remained at the third spot with 13 reported attacks but the watchdog said attacks in the Southeast Asian country's waters were on the decrease.

Worldwide, in the first six months of the year 190 crew members were taken hostage, six kidnapped and seven killed while seven others are missing presumed dead, the IMB said.

The bureau urged seafarers to remain on high alert in the waters off Somalia which have emerged as among the most dangerous, with no functioning government in the country for the past 17 years.

Meanwhile it said the busy Malacca Strait, which separates Malaysia and Indonesia recorded only two incidents in the first half of 2008, unchanged from a year ago.

The watchdog credited the numerous joint patrols by Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore for suppressing pirate attacks in the key waterway, which handles 30 percent of global sea traffic.

source: http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5jsVEzDLtgRrqHC-oyO_z2uVohlow

[awakening2lite]

South China Sea
9 June 2008
SOUTH CHINA SEA

A total of five attacks has been reported for the Area around Anambas Island, South China Sea since 24.03.2008 in the following positions : 02:52.5N-105:11.0E, 03:13.0N-105:26.0E, 03:16.18N-105:26.68E, 03:24.6N-105:31.5E, 02:36.8N-105:9.9E. Pirates in speedboats armed with Guns and long knives are attacking vessels and targeting vessel’s cash and properties. All vessels are advised to maintain a vigilant, 24 hrs, anti - piracy watch both visually and on radar while transiting these waters. Report all sightings of suspicious boats.

source: http://www.icc-ccs.org/main/all_piracy_al.php

[awakening2lite]

Weekly Piracy Report
1-7 July 2008

The following is a summary of the daily reports broadcast by the IMB's Piracy Reporting Centre to ships in Atlantic, Indian and Pacific Ocean Regions on the SafetyNET service of Inmarsat-C from 1 to 7 July 2008.

ALERT

Chittagong anchorage, Bangladesh
The number of attacks has reduced since 2006. However, the area is still listed as a high risk area and mariners are advised to be cautious especially while approaching the anchorage and while at anchor at Chittagong

Nigeria
Violent attacks carried out by pirates on board vessels at anchor and vessel carrying out STS operations. Mariners are advised to exercise extreme caution in these waters.


Suspicious crafts

Recently reported incidents
06.07.2008: 0135 LT: Posn: 21:48N – 091:42E, Kutubdia Island, Bangladesh.
Two robbers using a rope and hook boarded a tanker at anchor. Alert duty watch-keepers raised alarm. Robbers disembarked into a waiting boat, which had four other robbers and escaped. No injury to crew. Nothing reported stolen.

01.07.2008: 0330 LT: Nha Be River, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam.
Three robbers boarded and broke into the forward locker on a container ship at anchor. Alert anti piracy watch-keepers raised alarm. Robbers jumped overboard and escaped. Nothing stole. No injuries to crew.

01.07.2008: 0230 UTC: Posn: 10:15N - 107:07E: Vung Tau Anchorage, Vietnam.
Robbers boarded and stole ship stores from the forward locker on a tanker at anchor. Anti piracy watch-keepers spotted the robbers and raised the alarm. Robbers escaped with stolen goods. No injuries to crew.

29.06.2008: 0030 LT: Posn: 02:30.6N – 104:14.0E: Off Pulau Tioman, Malaysia
Six pirates’ armed with knives boarded a tug towing a barge underway while four pirates, armed with guns remained standby in the speedboat. The pirates stole crew personal belongings, ship’s properties and cash. After three hours of looting, the pirates escaped in their speedboat.

Piracy prone areas and warnings

Mariners are warned to be extra cautious and to take necessary precautionary measures when transiting the following areas:

S E Asia and the Indian Sub Continent

* Bangladesh : Although the number of attacks has fallen, the area is still listed as very high risk. Pirates are targeting ships preparing to anchor. Most attacks reported at Chittagong anchorages and approaches.
* Indonesia : Anambas/Natuna island area, Belawan. Pirates armed with guns and knives. Generally be vigilant in other areas. Many attacks may have gone unreported.
* India : Kandla. Most ships were attacked while at anchor.
* Malacca straits : Although the number of attacks has dropped due to the increase and constant patrols by the littoral states relevant Authorities since July 2005, ships are advised to continue maintaining a strict anti piracy watch when transiting the straits.
* Philippines : Manila - Pirates target ships at anchor.
* Singapore Straits : Only one reported incident in the last quarter, but vessels are advised to continue to be vigilant and maintain anti piracy watch. In the past pirates seen attacking ships while at anchor and underway.

Africa and Red Sea

* Lagos & Bonny River (Nigeria) : Pirates are violent and have attacked and robbed vessels/kidnapped crews along the coast and rivers, at anchorages and ports. Vessels advised to be also vigilant in other areas in Nigeria.
* Dar es Salaam (Tanzania) : Pirates are targeting ships in port and anchorages.
* Gulf of Aden / Red Sea : Somali pirates are now attacking vessels in the northern Somali coast in the Gulf of Aden. These pirates are firing automatic weapons and Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPG) in an attempt to board and hijack vessels. Once the attack is successful and the vessel hijacked, the pirates sail towards the Somali coast and thereafter demand a ransom for the release of the vessel and crew. All vessels transiting the area are advised to take additional precautionary measures and maintain strict 24 hours radar and anti piracy watch using all available means. Watch keeping crews should look out for small suspicious boats converging on vessel. Early sighting and accurate assessment will allow Master to increase speed and manoeuvre to escape pirates and at the same time request various Authorities/Agencies for assistance.
* Somalian waters : Recent incidents indicate that attacks have spread to the northern Somali coast. The Somali pirates are now attacking vessels in the northern Somali coast in the Gulf of Aden. Somali pirates are dangerous and are prepared to fire automatic weapons at ships in order to stop them. Occasionally they fire RPG (Rocket Propelled Grenade) launchers at ships. Pirates are believed to be using “mother vessels” to launch attacks far from the coast. These “mother vessels” proceed far out to sea and launch smaller boats to attack and hijack passing ships. Eastern and Northeastern coasts are high risk areas for attacks and hijackings. The IMB maintains its advice that vessels not making scheduled calls to ports in Somalia should keep as far away as possible from the Somali coast, ideally more than 200 nautical miles until a more permanent and encouraging sign is seen. Mariners are advised to report any suspicious boats to the Centre.

South and Central America and the Caribbean waters

* Brazil : Although the number of reported attacks has dropped in Santos. Ships are advised to continue to be vigilant.
* Peru : Callao

Rest of the World

* Arabian Sea : Sightings and calls from suspicious small boats. In some cases, boats chased the ships with unknown intent.


Secure-Ship

Secure-Ship is the most recent and effective innovation in the fight against piracy. It is a non-lethal, electrifying fence surrounding the whole ship, which has been specially adapted for maritime use. The fence uses 9,000-volt pulse to deter boarding attempts. An intruder coming in contact with the fence will receive an unpleasant non-lethal shock that will result in the intruder abandoning the attempted boarding. At the same time an alarm will go off, activating floodlights and a very loud siren. The IMB strongly recommends ship owners to install this device on board their ships. Further details can be obtained at www.secure-marine.com

ShipLoc

There are a number of reliable ship tracking devices available on the market today based upon Inmarsat and other satellite systems.

The IMB endorses ShipLoc, an inexpensive satellite tracking system, which allows shipping companies, armed only with a personal computer with Internet access, to monitor the exact location of their vessels. In addition to anti-hijacking role, ShipLoc facilitates independent and precise location of ships at regular intervals. ShipLoc is fully compliant with the IMO Regulation SOLAS XI-2/6 adopted during the diplomatic conference in December 2002, concerning a Ship Security Alert System. The ship security alert system regulation that will be put into place as of July 2004, requires ships of over 500 GT to be equipped with an alarm system in order to reinforce ship security. The system allows the crew, in case of danger, to activate an alarm button that automatically sends a message to the ship owner and to competent authorities. The message is sent without being able to be detected by someone on-board or by other ships in the vicinity. ShipLoc is contained in a small, discrete waterproof unit, which includes: an Argos transmitter, a GPS receiver, a battery pack in case of main power failure, and a flat antenna. ShipLoc is one of the most reliable systems available today. For more information, please visit www.shiploc.com

Reporting of incidents

Ships are advised to maintain anti-piracy watches and report all piratical attacks and suspicious movements of craft to the IMB Piracy Reporting Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia .

Tel + 60 3 2078 5763
Fax + 60 3 2078 5769
Telex MA34199 IMBPCI
E-mail: imbkl@icc-ccs.org
24 Hours Anti Piracy HELPLINE Tel: + 60 3 2031 0014

source: http://www.icc-ccs.org/prc/piracyreport.php

[packy]

Wow, I am surprised. Look at all the hot spots on the map.

I like the secure ship security that they can install. Never would have thought they could do something like that. Excerpt from your post above.

Secure-Ship is the most recent and effective innovation in the fight against piracy. It is a non-lethal, electrifying fence surrounding the whole ship, which has been specially adapted for maritime use. The fence uses 9,000-volt pulse to deter boarding attempts. An intruder coming in contact with the fence will receive an unpleasant non-lethal shock that will result in the intruder abandoning the attempted boarding. At the same time an alarm will go off, activating floodlights and a very loud siren. The IMB strongly recommends ship owners to install this device on board their ships. Further details can be obtained at www.secure-marine.com

[awakening2lite]

Russian ships at the mercy of pirates

EXCERPT

With the Russian navy having seen better days, its vessels remain at the mercy of pirates while their unarmed crews wait for help.

By Simon Saradzhyan in Moscow for ISN Security Watch (10/07/08)

Maritime shipment accounts for 60 percent of Russia's foreign trade shipments and not a year goes by without pirates attacking a ship either owned by Russian businessmen or manned by Russian crews.

Despite this, Russian authorities take a reactive rather than a proactive approach toward the threat: The navy trains regularly with NATO naval forces to fight pirates, but no ships are sent to patrol dangerous zones.

EXCERPT

In addition, each such vessel is equipped with the Onboard System of Distress Call, which allows a crewmember to notify the authorities of an emergency without announcing an onboard alert.

All distress calls are automatically received and processed by special coordination and rescue centers. There are nine such centers in Russia, with a coordination center in Moscow. These centers analyze and relay distress calls to the government agencies.

The main method of freeing citizens who are in someone's illegal custody is use of the Foreign Ministry's diplomatic channels, which in cooperation with the owner of the seized vessel, take measures to determine the reasons behind the illegal detention and seek ways to free the citizens, according to an 3 April statement issued to ISN Security Watch by the Transport Ministry.

In cases when diplomatic methods do not succeed, the Russian president has the power to issue an executive order to conduct an anti-terrorist operation outside the country's borders and territorial waters. Such operations are conducted in accordance with international treaties.

As required by the International Maritime Organization measure adopted last century, crews of Russian civil vessels are not armed. Their arsenal includes only truncheons and handcuffs, according to Russian media reports. In comparison, crews of Chinese civilian ships not only have submachine and machine guns at their disposal, but even grenade launchers.

EXCERPT

The punishment for piracy, which currently ranges between four and 15 years in prison unless aggravated by hostage taking and/or other grave crimes, may also be toughened.

But for now, Russian ships and their unarmed crews remain at the mercy of pirates in the high seas until someone comes to their rescue.

source: http://www.isn.ethz.ch/news/sw/details.cfm?id=19176

[awakening2lite]

Somalis demand ransom for German sailing couple

EXCERPT

Somali pirates have now demanded a ransom for the release of German couple they kidnapped from a yacht sailing in the pirate-infested Gulf of Aden, making this the first instance of a small cruising yacht's non-professional crew being kidnapped. Up to 100 small yachts make the Red Sea transit each year, most with short-handed crew, usually families, with or without children.

It is believed that the kidnapping was an opportunistic action that involved both pirates and local fishermen. 'The foreigners invaded our waters,' a spokesperson for the group holding the middle-aged couple from Southern Germany said.

The couple were abducted early Monday as they sailed through the Gulf of Aden on a trip from Egypt to Thailand. Reports coming from the area are confusing. Early reports had claimed that four Europeans were kidnapped, including the skipper and a young child, but the pirates said they are holding only the couple.

continued at source: http://www.sail-world.com/uk/index.cfm?nid=45745&rid=3

[packy]

http://www.dw-world.de/dw/article/0,,3471383,00.html?maca=en-rss-en-all-1573-rdf

UN looks to curb piracy in Somalia



Piracy is rife off the coast of the Horn of Africa nation. Cargo ships and luxury yachts have been targeted by heavily-armed pirates, who then hold the crew ransom.



Pirates are currently demanding $2 million dollars for the release of a German couple seized on June 23 as they sailed through the Gulf of Aden on a trip from Egypt to Thailand.



The highest-profile case in recent months involved the capture of a luxury French yacht in April. French troops rescued the hostages and captured six of the pirates, although another six are believed to have escaped.



The UN Security Council recently approved incursions into Somali waters to curb piracy, which the weak transitional government, currently engaged in countering a bloody insurgency, is powerless to prevent.



Somalia has been in a state of anarchy since the overthrow of dictator Mohamed Siad Barre in 1991.

[awakening2lite]

Weekly Piracy Report
8-14 July 2008

The following is a summary of the daily reports broadcast by the IMB's Piracy Reporting Centre to ships in Atlantic, Indian and Pacific Ocean Regions on the SafetyNET service of Inmarsat-C from 8 to 14 July 2008.

ALERT

Chittagong anchorage, Bangladesh
The number of attacks has reduced since 2006. However, the area is still listed as a high risk area and mariners are advised to be cautious especially while approaching the anchorage and while at anchor at Chittagong

Nigeria
Violent attacks carried out by pirates on board vessels at anchor and vessel carrying out STS operations. Mariners are advised to exercise extreme caution in these waters.


Suspicious crafts
None reported

Recently reported incidents
05.07.2008: 0325 LT: Abidjan Anchorage, Ivory Coast.
Duty AB onboard a chemical tanker noticed a small boat approaching from aft. AB informed OOW and went to check the other side of the vessel and saw one robber armed with a knife running towards him. OOW raised alarm and alerted crew. Robber stole ship’s equipment and escaped by ship’s messenger line. Port control informed.

11.07.2008: 0655 LT: Posn: 06:02.54S – 106:53.68E, Jakarta Anchorage, Indonesia.
Robbers attempted to board a general cargo vessel on four different occasions while the vessel was anchored. On one of the occasions, the robbers succeeded in boarding the vessel. Robbers stole ship’s stores and escaped. Port authorities informed who came onboard to investigate.

06.07.2008: 0945 LT: Posn: 12:34.3N – 043:25.6E, Off Mayyun Island, Gulf of Aden.
Blue coloured, wooden boats, with 10 -15 people attempted to close onto a bulk carrier underway. Alarm raised. Crew implemented anti piracy measures. After 10 minutes of trying to get close to the vessel the boats aborted the attempted and moved away.

Piracy prone areas and warnings

Mariners are warned to be extra cautious and to take necessary precautionary measures when transiting the following areas:

S E Asia and the Indian Sub Continent

* Bangladesh : Although the number of attacks has fallen, the area is still listed as very high risk. Pirates are targeting ships preparing to anchor. Most attacks reported at Chittagong anchorages and approaches.
* Indonesia : Anambas/Natuna island area, Belawan. Pirates armed with guns and knives. Generally be vigilant in other areas. Many attacks may have gone unreported.
* India : Kandla. Most ships were attacked while at anchor.
* Malacca straits : Although the number of attacks has dropped due to the increase and constant patrols by the littoral states relevant Authorities since July 2005, ships are advised to continue maintaining a strict anti piracy watch when transiting the straits.
* Philippines : Manila - Pirates target ships at anchor.
* Singapore Straits : Only one reported incident in the last quarter, but vessels are advised to continue to be vigilant and maintain anti piracy watch. In the past pirates seen attacking ships while at anchor and underway.

Africa and Red Sea

* Lagos & Bonny River (Nigeria) : Pirates are violent and have attacked and robbed vessels/kidnapped crews along the coast and rivers, at anchorages and ports. Vessels advised to be also vigilant in other areas in Nigeria.
* Dar es Salaam (Tanzania) : Pirates are targeting ships in port and anchorages.
* Gulf of Aden / Red Sea : Somali pirates are now attacking vessels in the northern Somali coast in the Gulf of Aden. These pirates are firing automatic weapons and Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPG) in an attempt to board and hijack vessels. Once the attack is successful and the vessel hijacked, the pirates sail towards the Somali coast and thereafter demand a ransom for the release of the vessel and crew. All vessels transiting the area are advised to take additional precautionary measures and maintain strict 24 hours radar and anti piracy watch using all available means. Watch keeping crews should look out for small suspicious boats converging on vessel. Early sighting and accurate assessment will allow Master to increase speed and manoeuvre to escape pirates and at the same time request various Authorities/Agencies for assistance.
* Somalian waters : Recent incidents indicate that attacks have spread to the northern Somali coast. The Somali pirates are now attacking vessels in the northern Somali coast in the Gulf of Aden. Somali pirates are dangerous and are prepared to fire automatic weapons at ships in order to stop them. Occasionally they fire RPG (Rocket Propelled Grenade) launchers at ships. Pirates are believed to be using “mother vessels” to launch attacks far from the coast. These “mother vessels” proceed far out to sea and launch smaller boats to attack and hijack passing ships. Eastern and Northeastern coasts are high risk areas for attacks and hijackings. The IMB maintains its advice that vessels not making scheduled calls to ports in Somalia should keep as far away as possible from the Somali coast, ideally more than 200 nautical miles until a more permanent and encouraging sign is seen. Mariners are advised to report any suspicious boats to the Centre.

South and Central America and the Caribbean waters

* Brazil : Although the number of reported attacks has dropped in Santos. Ships are advised to continue to be vigilant.
* Peru : Callao

Rest of the World

* Arabian Sea : Sightings and calls from suspicious small boats. In some cases, boats chased the ships with unknown intent.


Secure-Ship

Secure-Ship is the most recent and effective innovation in the fight against piracy. It is a non-lethal, electrifying fence surrounding the whole ship, which has been specially adapted for maritime use. The fence uses 9,000-volt pulse to deter boarding attempts. An intruder coming in contact with the fence will receive an unpleasant non-lethal shock that will result in the intruder abandoning the attempted boarding. At the same time an alarm will go off, activating floodlights and a very loud siren. The IMB strongly recommends ship owners to install this device on board their ships. Further details can be obtained at www.secure-marine.com

ShipLoc

There are a number of reliable ship tracking devices available on the market today based upon Inmarsat and other satellite systems.

The IMB endorses ShipLoc, an inexpensive satellite tracking system, which allows shipping companies, armed only with a personal computer with Internet access, to monitor the exact location of their vessels. In addition to anti-hijacking role, ShipLoc facilitates independent and precise location of ships at regular intervals. ShipLoc is fully compliant with the IMO Regulation SOLAS XI-2/6 adopted during the diplomatic conference in December 2002, concerning a Ship Security Alert System. The ship security alert system regulation that will be put into place as of July 2004, requires ships of over 500 GT to be equipped with an alarm system in order to reinforce ship security. The system allows the crew, in case of danger, to activate an alarm button that automatically sends a message to the ship owner and to competent authorities. The message is sent without being able to be detected by someone on-board or by other ships in the vicinity. ShipLoc is contained in a small, discrete waterproof unit, which includes: an Argos transmitter, a GPS receiver, a battery pack in case of main power failure, and a flat antenna. ShipLoc is one of the most reliable systems available today. For more information, please visit www.shiploc.com

Reporting of incidents

Ships are advised to maintain anti-piracy watches and report all piratical attacks and suspicious movements of craft to the IMB Piracy Reporting Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia .

Tel + 60 3 2078 5763
Fax + 60 3 2078 5769
Telex MA34199 IMBPCI
E-mail: imbkl@icc-ccs.org
24 Hours Anti Piracy HELPLINE Tel: + 60 3 2031 0014

source: http://www.icc-ccs.org/prc/piracyreport.php

[awakening2lite]

Gulf of Aden Warning - Upsurge in pirate activity
26 August 2008
Gulf of Aden

To all ships transiting the Gulf of Aden

Within the last 48 hours four ships have been attacked and hijacked by armed pirates in the vicinity 12 / 14 degrees north and 046 / 053 degrees east. All ships are strongly advised to maintain a strict visual and radar watch.

Early detection will allow ships to take measures to prevent boarding and request for assistance.

Intelligence sources revealed that there are now three suspicious vessels in the Gulf of Aden believed to be pirate mother vessels looking to attack ships with the intent to hijack.

The description of the suspected trawlers - long white, Russian made stern trawlers with names "BURUM OCEAN or ARENA or ATHENA". One of the trawlers is believed to be operating at approximately 60 NM NE of Bossasso, Somalia in the Gulf of Aden. Also intelligence indicates a blue-coloured tug operating in the same vicinity

The centre has received information that the suspected pirate mother ships are at the following positions:

BLUE-COLOURED TUG: 1159N 05056E at 25 0500 UTC Aug 08

Fishing trawler BURUM OCEAN: 1411N 04951E at 25 0930 UTC Aug 08

All ships are strongly advised to maintain a strict 24 hours visual and radar watch while transiting these waters and report any attacks or suspicious boats including the trawlers named above to the 24 hour IMB PRC:

Tel: +603 2031 0014 / +603 2078 5763
email: piracy@icc-ccs.org / imbkl@icc-ccs.org

Suspected Pirate Mother Vessels:
http://www.icc-ccs.org/images/prc/Burum1.jpg
BURUM OCEAN
http://www.icc-ccs.org/images/prc/Burum2.jpg
BURUM OCEAN
http://www.icc-ccs.org/images/prc/Athena_sml.jpg
ARENA or ATHENA

Source: Coalition Forces

http://www.icc-ccs.org/main/all_piracy_al.php

[awakening2lite]

Hostages freed by French military
London, 16 September 2008

IMB urges more action from coalition forceshttp://www.icc-ccs.org/admin/photos_large/119.dat
Two hostages held by Somali pirates have been freed by a French military operation after more than two weeks held captive.

The hostages, both French nationals, have been held since their sailing boat was hijacked in the Gulf of Aden on 2 September 2008. The operation left one pirate dead with a further six captured.

ICC International Maritime Bureau (IMB) Director Pottengal Mukundan commented: “We commend the actions of the French military in helping to end this incident. In our view this is exactly what should be done when a vessel is hijacked and the coastal state, by its own admission, is unable to control this crime. We call upon the international community to use this intervention as a springboard for a more proactive approach to protecting shipping in this region.”

The IMB’s Piracy Reporting Centre has so far reported over 50 attacks on vessels this year in Somali waters, predominantly in the Gulf of Aden. Of these there have been over 20 successful hijackings. Over 340 seafarers have been taken hostage.

The most recent attack saw a Hong Kong registered tanker hijacked on 16 September 2008, along with 22 crew. This ship was reportedly in the Maritime Security Patrol area, a safe corridor for shipping that was set up by coalition forces in the Gulf of Aden.

Mr Mukundan continued: “If we do not respond robustly against the pirate gangs, these incidents which are now occurring with an alarming frequency are only set to further increase. The coalition navy units in the Gulf of Aden are playing an important role in the prevention of attacks, despite their numerous other duties. We call upon the governments with naval vessels in the area to give greater priority in protecting shipping in this major waterway.”

According to the Piracy Reporting Centre, ten vessels are currently held captive by the pirates. Aboard the ten vessels are 221 crew members who remain hostage.

source: http://www.icc-ccs.org/main/news.php?newsid=119

[awakening2lite]

Weekly Piracy Report
30 September-6 October 2008

The following is a summary of the daily reports broadcast by the IMB's Piracy Reporting Centre to ships in Atlantic, Indian and Pacific Ocean Regions on the SafetyNET service of Inmarsat-C from 30 September to 6 October 2008.
ALERT
Gulf of Aden
Masters using the Maritime Security Patrol Area (MSPA) while transiting the Gulf of Aden are not relieved of their obligation and should continue to maintain a strict 24 hour look out using all available means to get an early warning of an approaching threat. Early indication of a piratical incident will enable the master to contact the Coalition Navies, the IMB Piracy Reporting Centre and respond appropriately to prevent boarding.

Nigeria
Violent attacks carried out by pirates on board vessels at anchor and vessel carrying out STS operations. Mariners are advised to exercise extreme caution in these waters.

Chittagong anchorage, Bangladesh
The number of attacks has reduced since 2006. However, the area is still listed as a high risk area and mariners are advised to be cautious especially while approaching the anchorage and while at anchor at Chittagong
Suspicious crafts
None reported
Recently reported incidents
http://www.icc-ccs.org/images/prc/triangle.gif02.10.2008: 23.05 LT: Callao anchorage No.12, Peru.
Five masked robbers attempted to board a container ship at anchor via the anchor chain. Alert crew used fire hoses and flashlights to scare off the robbers.

http://www.icc-ccs.org/images/prc/triangle.gif27.09.2008: 2140 UTC: Posn: 06:17.8N – 003:24.0E: Lagos fairway buoy, Nigeria.
One robber boarded a container ship at anchor. Duty crew spotted the robber and raised the alarm. Crew mustered. Robber jumped overboard and escaped in a waiting boat with accomplices. Ship’s stores stolen.

http://www.icc-ccs.org/images/prc/triangle.gif03.10.2008: 0230 LT: Off Mangkai Island, Indonesia.
Six pirates armed with long knives boarded a LPG tanker underway. They stole ships and crew cash before escaping. Further details awaited.

http://www.icc-ccs.org/images/prc/triangle.gif02.10.2008: 0220 LT; Posn: 03:11.50N - 105:22.23E, Off Mangkai island, Indonesia.
Eight pirates armed with guns and knives boarded a chemical tanker underway. Pirates took hostage 2nd mate and a duty AB. Pirates took second mate to captain's cabin. They held a knife at to the captain’s throat, stole ships cash, and escaped. Master was kicked in the chest.

http://www.icc-ccs.org/images/prc/triangle.gif02.10.2008: 1215 UTC: 20nm south of Bonny signal station, Nigeria.
About ten pirates armed with submachine guns and hand grenades boarded a refrigerated cargo ship drifting. Ship contacted authorities and enforced preventive measures. Pirates escaped in their speedboat. No injuries to crew and nothing was stolen.

http://www.icc-ccs.org/images/prc/triangle.gif01.10.2008: 0300 UTC: Gulf of Aden.
Two speedboats approached a bulk carrier underway on port and stbd bow with intentions to board. Master adopted evasive manoeuvres to prevent boarding. One boat approached on stbd bow and pirates hooked a ladder in order to board. Ship's crew were able to remove it. Master contacted coalition warships on VHF Ch.16 for assistance. The boats continued their attempts to board on both port and stbd bow. Master kept altering course to avoid the boats. A coalition navy helicopter arrived at location, after surveying the area, informed the ship that there were no pirate boats around / ahead. Ship continued her normal passage.

http://www.icc-ccs.org/images/prc/triangle.gif01.10.2008: 0523 UTC: Posn: 13:13:59N - 047:57.52E: Gulf of Aden.
Pirates in speedboats attempted to board a tanker underway. Master took evasive manoeuvres to avoid boarding. Later, the speedboats aborted the attempt and moved away.

http://www.icc-ccs.org/images/prc/triangle.gif01.10.2008: 0345 UTC: Posn: 13:10N - 047:43E: Gulf of Aden.
Pirates in speedboats attempted to board a chemical tanker underway. Master took evasive manoeuvres and informed owners who contacted the IMB Piracy Reporting Centre for assistance. Duty officer informed authorities to render assistance to vessel. A warship arrived at location and chased the boats away.

http://www.icc-ccs.org/images/prc/triangle.gif01.10.2008: 1435 UTC: Posn: 12:42.08N - 049:09.09E, Gulf of Aden.
Four pirates armed with rifles attempted to board a container ship underway. Master raised alarm and vessel took evasive manoeuvres. The crew mustered and activated fire hoses. The pirates fired upon the ship and aborted their attack after ten minutes.

http://www.icc-ccs.org/images/prc/triangle.gif30.09.2008: 0350 LT: Posn: 02:48.0N – 105:09.2E: Vicinity of Anambas island, Indonesia.
About eight pirates armed with long knives boarded a bulk carrier underway. They tied the captain’s hands and stole cash from him. Then they went to chief engineers’ cabin and stole cash money. They took the captain to aft deck and tied him to the bollard before escaping.

http://www.icc-ccs.org/images/prc/triangle.gif20.07.2008: Beau Vallon Bay, Mahe, Seychelles.
One robber boarded a yacht at anchor. He was spotted and chased away by the crew. Master informed that several other boats were also attacked on that night.
The piracy reporting centre advises all vessels / yacht / boats to be cautious when visiting Mahe, Seychelles islands, and to report all such incidents to the IMB Piracy Reporting Centre.
Piracy prone areas and warnings
Mariners are warned to be extra cautious and to take necessary precautionary measures when transiting the following areas:
S E Asia and the Indian Sub Continent


Bangladesh : Although the number of attacks has fallen, the area is still listed as very high risk. Pirates are targeting ships preparing to anchor. Most attacks reported at Chittagong anchorages and approaches.
Indonesia : Anambas/Natuna island area, Belawan. Pirates armed with guns and knives. Generally be vigilant in other areas. Many attacks may have gone unreported.
India : Kandla. Most ships were attacked while at anchor.
Malacca straits : Although the number of attacks has dropped due to the increase and constant patrols by the littoral states relevant Authorities since July 2005, ships are advised to continue maintaining a strict anti piracy watch when transiting the straits.
Philippines : Manila - Pirates target ships at anchor.
Singapore Straits : Only one reported incident in the last quarter, but vessels are advised to continue to be vigilant and maintain anti piracy watch. In the past pirates seen attacking ships while at anchor and underway.

Africa and Red Sea


Lagos & Bonny River (Nigeria) : Pirates are violent and have attacked and robbed vessels/kidnapped crews along the coast and rivers, at anchorages and ports. Vessels advised to be also vigilant in other areas in Nigeria.
Dar es Salaam (Tanzania) : Pirates are targeting ships in port and anchorages.
Gulf of Aden / Red Sea : Somali pirates are now attacking vessels in the northern Somali coast in the Gulf of Aden. These pirates are firing automatic weapons and Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPG) in an attempt to board and hijack vessels. Once the attack is successful and the vessel hijacked, the pirates sail towards the Somali coast and thereafter demand a ransom for the release of the vessel and crew. All vessels transiting the area are advised to take additional precautionary measures and maintain strict 24 hours radar and anti piracy watch using all available means. Watch keeping crews should look out for small suspicious boats converging on vessel. Early sighting and accurate assessment will allow Master to increase speed and manoeuvre to escape pirates and at the same time request various Authorities/Agencies for assistance.
Somalian waters : Recent incidents indicate that attacks have spread to the northern Somali coast. The Somali pirates are now attacking vessels in the northern Somali coast in the Gulf of Aden. Somali pirates are dangerous and are prepared to fire automatic weapons at ships in order to stop them. Occasionally they fire RPG (Rocket Propelled Grenade) launchers at ships. Pirates are believed to be using “mother vessels” to launch attacks far from the coast. These “mother vessels” proceed far out to sea and launch smaller boats to attack and hijack passing ships. Eastern and Northeastern coasts are high risk areas for attacks and hijackings. The IMB maintains its advice that vessels not making scheduled calls to ports in Somalia should keep as far away as possible from the Somali coast, ideally more than 250 nautical miles until a more permanent and encouraging sign is seen. Mariners are advised to report any suspicious boats to the Centre.

South and Central America and the Caribbean waters


Brazil : Although the number of reported attacks has dropped in Santos. Ships are advised to continue to be vigilant.
Peru : Callao

Rest of the World


Arabian Sea : Sightings and calls from suspicious small boats. In some cases, boats chased the ships with unknown intent.

source: http://www.icc-ccs.org/prc/piracyreport.php

[RayStar]

Now this is some interesting scary information. Thanks to this thread by A2L I just looked at a world map and now I understand how Somalia is so involved as pirates. I did not know Somalia was on the coast. I learned something.

[awakening2lite]

Now this is some interesting scary information. Thanks to this thread by A2L I just looked at a world map and now I understand how Somalia is so involved as pirates. I did not know Somalia was on the coast. I learned something.

Hi RayStar :happy0207:

Glad to know you found the information of interest and useful, the best of both worlds.


It is amazing what goes on outside our usual news sources.

Prior to the creation of the International Chamber of Commerce and the Commercial Crime Services, there was no compilation of information or events. Thanks to their joint efforts reports of Piracy can be made and others can access the information to heed the warnings it provides.

[awakening2lite]

Weekly Piracy Report (http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=308:weekly-piracy-report&catid=32:weekly-piracy-report&Itemid=10) 28 October - 3 November 2008

Suspicious crafts

None reported

Recently reported incidents


02.11.2008: 0420 LT: Posn: 06 26.57N - 003 23.096E: Berth No. 8, Apapa port, Lagos, Nigeria.

Seven robbers boarded a general cargo ship at berth. Robbers broke the forecastle store padlocks but escaped in a waiting speedboat as soon as the alert duty crew noticed them. Local agent and company CSO were informed.


25.10.2008: 0430 LT: Douala port: Cameroon.

Robbers boarded a diving support vessel berthed alongside several times. Alert shore security apprehended them. Nothing stolen.


29.10.2008: 1052 UTC: Posn:13:00.15N – 046:40.73E: Gulf of Aden.

Pirates armed with automatic weapons in two speedboats opened fire on a bulk carrier underway. The pirates boarded and hijacked the vessel and took the 20 crew as hostage. They then sailed the vessel to an undisclosed location in Somalia. The vessel was carrying a cargo of iron ore pellets from Pointe Noire, Canada to Rizhao, China when it was hijacked.


28.10.2008: 0800 LT: Posn: 13:26N - 048:27E, Gulf of Aden.

Pirates in three high-speed crafts approached a tanker underway. Master took evasive manoeuvres, transmitted mayday messages, sounded foghorn and crew mustered. Pirates fired upon the tanker and attempted to board. Master maintained evasive manoeuvres and mayday messages. Pirates aborted the attempt after 10 minutes. Crew and vessel safe.


28.10.2008: 1500 LT: Posn: 12:54N - 046:40E, Gulf of Aden.

Twelve pirates in three fast attack boats were noticed departing from a white coloured fishing vessel (pirate mother vessel). Master took evasive manoeuvres, activated SSAS, sent mayday messages and crew mustered in a safe compartment. For five minutes, the pirates aggressively fired towards the accommodation of the tanker and attempted to board. A coalition warship responded to the mayday messages and sent an aircraft to the scene. Master maintained the evasive manoeuvres. The pirates briefly stopped the attack to re-grouped and then attacked again. The aircraft made a very low pass over the pirates and then dropped some ordinance on them. The attempted attack was aborted and the situation became safe. After 20 minutes, a French helicopter arrived to check the situation and master informed them about the pirate mother vessel's location. Crew and vessel safe.


28.10.2008: 1350 UTC: Posn: 13:17.08N - 048: 35.43E, Gulf of Aden.

Five pirates in a small fast speedboat approached a general cargo ship underway. Master raised alarm, took evasive manoeuvres and crew activated fire hoses. Pirates fired at the ship with automatic weapons and the crew took shelter. They tried to board the ship using a ladder but the pirate boat's skipper fell overboard and they aborted the boarding and rescued him. Master activated SSAS and contacted the coalition warships. During a second approach to the vessel, the pirate boat's engine failed. A coalition warship responded and advised the master to steer a course towards them. The warship escorted the ship and later the ship resumed voyage. Crew and vessel safe.


23.10.2008: 1737 UTC: Posn: 03:47S – 042:46E: 180nm of Mombasa, Kenya.

Pirates in two speedboats chased and fired on a container ship underway. Master took evasive manoeuvres and increased speed. Later, the speedboats aborted. Vessel sustained bullet-hole damages.


http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=308&Itemid=10

[packy]

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/sns-ap-piracy,0,7410406.story

NEW DELHI (AP) _ An Indian naval vessel sank a suspected pirate "mother ship" in the Gulf of Aden and chased two attack boats into the night, officials said Wednesday, as separate bands of brigands seized Thai and Iranian ships in the lawless seas.

The owners of a seized Saudi oil supertanker, meanwhile, negotiated for the release of the ship, anchored off the coast of Somalia.

A multinational naval force has increased patrols in the waters between the Arabian Peninsula and the Horn of Africa, where pirates have grown bolder and more violent. The force scored a rare success Tuesday when the Indian warship, operating off the coast of Oman, stopped a ship similar to a pirate vessel described in numerous bulletins. The Indian navy said the pirates fired on the INS Tabar after the officers asked to search it.

"Pirates were seen roaming on the upper deck of this vessel with guns and rocket propelled grenade launchers," said a statement from the Indian navy. Indian forces fired back, sparking fires and a series of onboard blasts — possibly due to exploding ammunition — and destroying the ship.

Tuesday hijackings raised to eight the number of ships hijacked this week alone, he said. Since the beginning of the year, 39 ships have been hijacked in the Gulf of Aden, out of 95 attacked.

"The criminal activities are flourishing because the risks are low and the rewards are extremely high," Choong said.

The pirates used to mainly roam the waters off the Somali coast, but now they have spread in every direction and are targeting ships farther at sea, according to Choong.

He said 17 vessels remain in the hands of pirates along with more than 300 crew members, including a Ukrainian ship loaded with weapons and the Saudi supertanker carrying $100 million in crude.

The supertanker, the MV Sirius Star, was anchored Tuesday close to Harardhere, the main pirates' den on the Somali coast, with a full load of 2 million barrels of oil and 25 crew members. (Much more at link)

[awakening2lite]

(http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=308:weekly-piracy-report&catid=32:weekly-piracy-report&Itemid=10)
11 - 17 November 2008
Suspicious crafts
None reported
Recently reported incidents


16.11.2008: 0430 UTC: Posn: 04:08N - 006:50E, Bonny outer road anchorage, Nigeria.

Six robbers armed with automatic weapons opened fire at a refrigerated cargo ship at anchor. Robbers in a speedboat circled 4 times around the ship and left. No injury to crew.


13.11.2008: 1000 UTC: Mamonal ‘A’ anchorage, Cartagena, Colombia.

Robbers armed with gun and knives boarded a cement carrier at anchor. They tied up one crewmember and stole ship’s stores. Coast guard boarded vessel for investigation.


31.10.2008: 0000 LT: Bakasi Peninsula, Kole oil terminal, Cameroon.

Heavily armed pirates boarded an off shore supply vessel and kidnapped some crewmembers. Further report awaited.


15.11.2008: 0915 UTC: Posn: 12:50.69N - 046:42.86E, Gulf of Aden.

Armed pirates attacked and hijacked a chemical tanker underway. Further details are awaited.


15.11.2008: 0723 UTC: Posn: 04:41S - 048:43E, 450 nm south east Mogadishu.

Armed pirates attacked and hijacked a tanker underway. Further details are awaited.


14.11.2008: 2134 UTC: Posn: 04:25.6S - 048:58.5E, off southern Somalia.

Pirates heavily armed with automatic weapons and RPG in two speedboats chased and fired upon a container ship underway. Master increased speed, took evasive manoeuvres and crew activated fire hoses. Pirates aborted the attempted attack at 2256 UTC. Ship sustained damages due to gunshots and RPG fire. No injuries to crew.


14.11.2008: 0635 UTC: Posn: 13:21.3N – 047:18.86E, Gulf of Aden.

Pirates armed with automatic weapons in three small speedboats approached a chemical tanker underway. Master contacted coalition warship and took evasive manoeuvres. The speedboats spread out and approached the vessel at high speed. The pirates failed in their attempt to board the vessel.


13.11.2008: 0630 LT: Posn: 13:28.0N – 049:21.5E, Gulf of Aden.

Six pirates in a fast speedboat approached a bulk carrier underway. Master raised alarm, took evasive manoeuvres and crew activated fire hoses. The pirates ordered the ship to stop but master continued with the evasive manoeuvres. The pirates fired upon the ship with two rocket propelled grenades and automatic weapons. Master called coalition warship and asked for immediate assistance. A coalition warship responded and came to the location in 15 minutes and chased away the pirate boat. No injuries to the crew or damages to the ship.


13.11.2008: 1245 UTC: Posn: 04:51.4S – 044:54.1E, Somalia.

Pirates armed with automatic weapons and RPG chased and fired upon a container ship underway. Because of the firing, fire broke out in the third officers’ cabin. The vessel increased speed and made evasive manoeuvres. The pirate boat came alongside on port side. Pirates tried to embark on board but were unsuccessful. Later they aborted. Vessel continued to her destination port.


12.11.2008: 1210 UTC: Posn: 12:33.6n – 045:10.6e, Gulf of Aden.

Armed pirates in two speedboats chased a tanker underway. Tanker took evasive manoeuvres and escaped from the pirates.


12.11.2008: 1405 UTC: Posn: 13:07N - 046:48E, Gulf of Aden.

Armed pirates attacked and hijacked a chemical tanker underway. Further details are awaited.


11.11.2008: 0415 UTC: Posn: 12:45N – 045:04E: Gulf of Aden.

Two speedboats with 3-4 armed pirates in each boat chased a bulk carrier underway. Evasive manoeuvres made and warship contacted. A naval helicopter arrived at the location and interrupted the speedboats. Speedboats aborted the attack. Later, a warship was sighted and established contact.


10.11.2008: 0030 LT: Posn: 01:11.09N - 103:52.10E, Singapore Straits.

Five pirates armed with long knives boarded a tug towing a barge underway. Pirates stole personal belongings and escaped. No injury to crew. Master informed port authority.


10.11.2008: 1005 UTC: Posn: 01:12.5N – 050:41.1; 250 nm east of Mogadishu, Somalia.

Two speedboats approached a refrigerated cargo ship underway. One boat approached from the stbd quarter and the other from astern. The pirates armed with guns and RPG’s started to open fire on the ship. Ship made evasive manoeuvres. The speedboats could not get closer due to the waves created by the evasive manoeuvres. Later the speedboats aborted the attempt. Ship sustained damages from gunfire. Crew safe.


10.11.2008: 1400 UTC: Posn: 13:27.6N – 048:26.8E: Gulf of Aden.

Pirates armed with RPG and guns boarded a chemical tanker underway and hijacked it. They are holding 23 crewmembers as hostage onboard and sailing the tanker to an undisclosed location in Somalia. Further details awaited.


http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=308&Itemid=10

[awakening2lite]

Weekly Piracy Report (http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=308:weekly-piracy-report&catid=32:weekly-piracy-report&Itemid=10) 18 - 24 November 2008
Suspicious crafts
None reported
Recently reported incidents


20.11.2008: 0200 LT: Tema roads, Ghana.

Eight robbers armed with long knives boarded a container ship at anchor via the anchor chain. They took hostage two duty-crew, tied them up and robbed them. They then stole ship's equipment and stores. The duty officer, from the bridge, called the duty crew several times via UHF radio. On hearing the call the robbers they jumped overboard and escaped in a waiting boat.


22.11.2008: 0230 LT: Posn; 01:18.25N – 104:18.40E: Singapore Straits.

Five pirates armed with guns and knives boarded a tanker underway. They stole ship’s equipment and escaped once alarm raised. No injury to crew.


21.11.2008: 0130 UTC: Posn: 16:17N – 119:32E: West Coast Luzon, Philippines.

Three blue coloured speedboats, chased a bulk carrier underway. Ship increased speed, made evasive manoeuvres, raised alarm and fire hoses standby. Pirates aborted the attempt after 30 minutes


18.11.2008: 0600 LT: Posn: 14:17.15N – 050:15.7E Gulf of Aden.

Owners verbally confirmed that three speedboats came alongside their fishing vessel and hijacked it. Twelve crewmembers taken hostage and vessel sailed into Somali waters.


18.11.2008: 0600 UTC: Posn: 14:23N – 051:05E Gulf of Aden.

Pirate boarded and hijacked a bulk carrier underway. 25 crewmembers have been taken hostage. A coalition aircraft flew over the vessel and sighted five armed pirates onboard with and a skiff tied alongside. The vessel was sailed into Somali waters.


15.11.2008: AM: Off Kenyan waters: Somalia.

Pirates boarded a fishing vessel, hijacked it with its 24 crewmembers, and sailed the vessel into Somali waters.


31.10.2008: 0030 LT: Posn: 01:11.0N - 103:50.5E, Singapore Straits.

Five pirates, in a wooden boat, armed with knives boarded a tanker underway. They stole ship's equipment and crew personal belongings and escaped.


http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=308&Itemid=10

[packy]

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/cruises/3538744/Pirates-attack-cruise-ship-off-Somali-coast.html

Last Updated: 7:08PM GMT 01 Dec 2008


luxury cruise ship carrying dozens of British passengers has been attacked by pirates in the Gulf of Aden, off the coast of Somalia, en route to Oman.

The Oceania Nautica was fired at during its 32-day voyage from Rome to Singapore.

The ship – carrying 690 passengers and 386 crew – was approached yesterday by two small skiffs which fired several shots.

No one on board was hurt and Nautica's captain Jurica Brajcic was able to take evasive action and outrun the two boats.

"One of the skiffs did manage to close the range to 300 yards and fired eight rifle shots in the direction of the vessel before trailing off," said a statement by Oceania. "No one aboard Nautica was harmed and no damage was sustained."

29 Britons are on board the cruise ship, which is due to arrive in Oman today. Passengers paid an average of £15,000 for the cruise.

[awakening2lite]

Weekly Piracy Report (http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=308:weekly-piracy-report&catid=32:weekly-piracy-report&Itemid=10) 25 November - 1 December 2008
Suspicious crafts
None reported
Recently reported incidents


26.11.2008: 0430 LT: Lagos anchorage, Nigeria.

Armed robbers in a small craft boarded a chemical tanker at anchor. They stole ship's property and escaped before the duty A/B raised the alarm. The craft was observed approaching another vessel. The tanker warned the vessel. The craft aborted the attempt and headed back to shore.


30.11.2008: 0528 UTC: Posn: 14:02.7N – 049:43.7E, Gulf of Aden.

Two pirate boats with three pirates in each boat attempted to intercept a passenger ship underway. Master sighted a gun on the second boat and later the pirates fired upon the ship. Master increased speed and the pirate boats were unable to follow the ship and aborted the attempt. UKMTO Dubai was informed.


29.11.2008: 0520 UTC: Posn: 12:20N – 044:11E, Gulf of Aden.

Two speedboats with ten pirates armed with guns and rockets attempted to board a bulk carrier underway. Boats closed the ship’s bow and quarter. Master raised alarm, took evasive manoeuvres and activated fire hoses. After 25 minutes of chasing, the pirates aborted the attempt.


29.11.2008: 0300 UTC: Posn: 13:54N – 049:26E, Gulf of Aden.

Ten speedboats with 2 / 3 masked men in each boat came close to an oil tanker underway. One of these boats came very close and the pirates were sighted as carrying guns. Master raised alarm and took evasive manoeuvres. Pirate boats then moved away. A coalition warship was informed.


29.11.2008: 1950 UTC: Posn: 10:16.1N – 107:02.2E, Vung Tau outer anchorage, Vietnam.

Six robbers in a fishing boat approached a general cargo ship at anchor. Two robbers armed with knives boarded the ship. One of them threatened the duty crew with a knife while the other robber stole ship's stores. Later they jumped overboard and escaped in their boat with the stolen stores. Port control informed.


28.11.2008: 0447 UTC: Posn: 13:54N - 049:09E, Gulf of Aden.

Armed pirates attacked a chemical tanker underway. The tanker broadcast a distress message. A coalition helicopter arrived at the location but the pirates had already boarded and hijacked the vessel. They took the 28 crew as hostage. Further details are awaited.


24.11.2008: 0605 UTC: Posn: 14:11.72N – 049:59.5E, Gulf of Aden.

Armed pirates, in two speedboats approached and chased a bulk carrier underway. Master took evasive manoeuvres, activated fire hoses and raised alarm. Pirates opened fire but could not board due to anti piracy measures. Later the pirates gave up the chase. A coalition warship proceeded to render assistance.


http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=308&Itemid=10

[awakening2lite]

Cruise ship evades pirate attack

Tuesday, 2 December 2008

A US cruise ship carrying more than 1,000 people was targeted at the weekend by pirates off the coast of Somalia, maritime officials say.
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/45259000/jpg/_45259636_nautica.jpg
The Nautica outran the Somali pirates, officials said


Two small boats chased and fired shots at the Nautica eight times, but failed to board the vessel.

Her captain, Jurica Brajcic, manoeuvred away from the pirates and increased speed to outrun them.

The Nautica, with 656 passengers and 399 crew, was in waters patrolled by a multinational task force.

The ship was on a 32-day cruise from Rome to Singapore when it was attacked at 0930 local time (0630) on Sunday in the Gulf of Aden.

Oceania Cruises, the Miami-based company which owns the Nautica, described the events leading to the incident on their website.

"The skiffs, approaching from a range of approximately 1,000 metres, attempted to intercept the vessel's course," it said.

"Captain Jurica Brajcic and his officers immediately began evasive manoeuvres and took all prescribed precautions."

Helicopter scrambled

The Times in London quotes a spokesman for the Danish Navy, which has current responsibility for maritime safety in that area, saying that a vessel was called on to aid the Nautica.

Danish TV later reported that a French Navy helicopter had been scrambled at its request.

The Nautica is the largest, though not the first, cruise ship to be targeted by pirates off the Somali coast.

In April this year, pirates seized Le Ponant, a luxury liner with 30 people on board. They were eventually freed after an eight day stand-off.

Oceania Cruises said it believed the attack was an isolated incident and that it would not be cancelling planned trips in the area.

The Nautica was scheduled to dock at ports in Italy, Egypt, Oman, Dubai, India, Malaysia and Thailand.

Correspondents say that despite the US-led creation of a special security corridor in the area, pirate attacks are continuing.

Pirates are still holding a Saudi tanker, the Sirius Star, and its cargo of 2m barrels of oil off the Somali coast.

On Tuesday, the AFP news agency quoted Somalia's insurgent Islamist leader, Sheikh Hassan Dahir Aweys, calling for "the release of all vessels under the command of Somali pirates".


http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/45217000/gif/_45217511_africa_piracy_map226_3.gif


Mr Aweys added that his Islamist grouping was the only force capable of governing Somalia, which has not had a functioning government since 1991.
Had they still been in charge in Mogadishu, the pirates would have been stamped out, he said.



http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/africa/7760216.stm

[awakening2lite]

On patrol with the pirate hunters



http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/africa/7742029.stm

Helicopter footage of the Turkish warship



Nato warships patrol Arabian Sea

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/africa/7740432.stm

Four Nato warships have been patrolling the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Aden in support of merchant vessels.
The BBC's Christian Fraser was on board one of the ships which has left the port of Mombasa and is escorting food aid which is destined for Somalia.

[awakening2lite]

Weekly Piracy Report (http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=308:weekly-piracy-report&catid=32:weekly-piracy-report&Itemid=10) 2 December - 8 December 2008
Suspicious crafts
None reported
Recently reported incidents


02.12.2008: 0230 UTC: Tema anchorage, Ghana.

Four robbers boarded an oil tanker at anchor. Robbers stole ship’s stores and escaped when noticed. No injuries to crew.


16.11.2008: 0945 LT: Posn: 05:34.53N – 005:22.39E, Warri river, Nigeria.

Several speedboats with heavily armed men approached a general cargo ship under pilotage. They fired warning shots into the air, ordered the pilot to stop the ship and demanded the gangway ladder to be lowered. The pirates boarded the ship and sailed it to a their rebel base where they anchored it. The 19 crew were taken ashore. The crew and ship was later released. No harm to crew.


06.12.2008: 1142 UTC: Posn: 06:42S – 046:58E, off southern Somalia (450 nm east of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania / 350 nm west of Seychelles islands)

Two pirate skiffs were seen approaching a container ship underway. The 2nd mate increased speed, raised alarm, activated fire hoses and mustered crew on bridge. The pirates fired upon the ship with guns and RPG. Master activated SSAS, DSC distress and increased speed to maximum. After some time, the pirates stop firing and the distance increased. The pirates reloaded their weapons and start firing again. For some reason, one of the skiffs slowed down and the other boat was just trailing without firing. Finally, the two skiffs stopped and aborted the attempted attack. No injuries to crew. A fire broke out on board the vessel due to the gunfire and RPG. A white hulled fishing boat-like vessel was sighted 10 nm away, which could be the pirate mother vessel.


06.12.2008: 0145 LT: Belawan outer anchorage, Indonesia.

Robbers boarded a chemical tanker at anchor. They broke the bosun store padlock and stole ship's stores. Attempt to contact authorities were futile.


03.12.2008: 0419 UTC: Posn: 12:59.49N - 047:41.56E, Gulf of Aden.

Pirates, armed with automatic rifles, in a speedboat fired upon a chemical tanker underway. They tried to board the tanker twice, using a portable ladder, but were unsuccessful due to the evasive manoeuvres taken by the tanker. Pirates aborted the attempted attack after two hours. A coalition helicopter came to investigate.


01.12.2008: 2100 LT: Posn: 02:51.00N - 104:19.00E,7.3nm off Teluk Juara, east of Pulau Tioman, Malaysia.

Ten armed pirates boarded a tug underway. They threatened the master and crew with knives. Pirates tied up the crew with ropes and locked them in a compartment. They escaped with tug's and crew cash, documents and personal belongings. On 02.12.2008 at 0215 LT, the 2nd officer reported the incident to owners and owners instructed the master to sail the tug to Thailand. Incident reported to local police.

http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=308&Itemid=10

[awakening2lite]

Lloyds establish piracy insurance

Wednesday, 10 December 2008 Lloyd’s of London broker Aon to cover for loss of earnings incurred by charterers, shipowners and cargo owners when a ship is being detained by pirates. Against a background of increasing pirate attacks off the coast of Somalia involving kidnapping and shoot-outs, Lloyd’s underwriters are behind a new kind of marine insurance policy aimed at covering a gap in standard cover.


continued at source:
http://www.dofonline.co.uk/strategic-finance/lloyds-establish-piracy-insurance-120810.html

[awakening2lite]

Weekly Piracy Report (http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=308:weekly-piracy-report&catid=32:weekly-piracy-report&Itemid=10) 16 December - 22 December 2008
Suspicious crafts
None reported
Recently reported incidents


16.12.2008: 0740 LT: Posn: 03:43.3N – 007:13.8E: 41nm south of Bonny river, Nigeria.

OOW onboard a tanker drifting, observed two speed boats approaching it. Engines were started and crew alerted. Several bullets from automatic guns were fired towards the accommodation. The boats were white in colour. Each boat had at least nine pirates dressed in blue/white coveralls.


17.12.2008: 0424 UTC: Posn: 14:28N - 051:36E: Gulf of Aden.

Nine pirates in two speed boats chased and successfully boarded a heavy lift ship. The pirates were on the main deck and could not enter the accommodation. Ship sent a distress message to the IMB Piracy Reporting Centre which was immediately relayed to coalition naval forces to render assistance. A Malaysian warship, in the vicinity, sent a helicopter, which arrived on the scene and opened fire on the pirates. Coalition naval forces informed that the warship was on its way to assist the ship. The pirates disembarked from the ship into a speed boat. Crew and ship are safe and proceeding to destination port.


16.12.2008: 0715 LT: Posn: 13:54N – 049:39E: Gulf of Aden.

Pirates boarded and hijacked the tug towing an un laden barge enroute to Port Klang Malaysia. Pirates are now sailing the vessel to undisclosed location in Somalia.


16.12.2008: 0904 UTC: Posn: 13:20.82N - 047:57.63E, Gulf of Aden.

Pirates, in two speedboats armed with automatic weapons and RPG attacked and opened fire on a general cargo ship underway. Master transmitted mayday messages and took evasive manoeuvres. Pirates managed to board and hijack the ship. Eleven crewmembers have been taken hostage. Further information is awaited.


http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=308&Itemid=10

[awakening2lite]

Weekly Piracy Report (http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=308:weekly-piracy-report&catid=32:weekly-piracy-report&Itemid=10) 23 December - 29 December 2008
Suspicious crafts
None reported
Recently reported incidents


26.12.2008: 0340 LT: Posn: 01:18.05N -104:08.9E: Johor outer port limit: Malaysia.

Six armed robbers boarded an offshore support vessel and stole ship’s stores and properties. Authorities informed who later boarded for investigation.


25.12.2008: 0030 LT: Posn: 10:41.22N -106:45.6E: mid stream Saigon River: Vietnam.

An AB stationed on forecastle deck heard some noises and he immediately conducted a search. Two robbers were seen escaping. Upon investigation store padlocks were found broken. Nothing stolen.


25.12.2008: 16:14 UTC: Posn: 14:13.7N – 050:51.5E: Gulf of Aden.

A bulk carrier underway was chased and fired upon by a pirate boat. The vessel sent a distress message which was relayed by a passing ship to the IMB Piracy Reporting Centre for assistance. The IMB Piracy Reporting Centre immediately contacted the authorities for assistance. A warship and a helicopter was sent to assist the crew and the vessel. Seeing the naval helicopter approaching the pirate boat aborted and moved away. One crew member onboard the bulk carrier was injured on his leg from a bullet fired by the pirates. The injured crew was airlifted to a warship for medical treatment. Rest of the crew safe. Vessel proceeding to destination port


22.12.2008: 0340 LT: Chittagong anchorage, Bangladesh.

Duty oiler onboard a tanker spotted armed robbers near the engine store area. The alarm was raised, crew alerted and authorities contacted. Robbers escaped with stolen engine spares.


http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=308&Itemid=10

[awakening2lite]

Weekly Piracy Report (http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=308:weekly-piracy-report&catid=32:weekly-piracy-report&Itemid=10) 30 December 2008 - 5 January 2009
Suspicious crafts
None reported
Recently reported incidents



28.12.2008: 1950 LT: Posn: 12:01.9S - 077:11.1W, Callao anchorage, Peru.

Ten robbers boarded a bulk carrier at anchor. They took hostage one duty crew and tied his hands and legs. Robbers stole ship's stores and property and escaped. Port control informed. A coast guard boat came and patrolled the area.


26.12.2008: Posn: 12:53.5S – 38:41.15W Bahia de Todos Os Santos, Itaparica marina, Brazil.

Two armed robbers boarded a yacht at anchor and assaulted the two crew members.
Robbers stole ship’s properties, cash and crew properties before escaping. The two
injured crew were given shore medical treatment. Authorities are investigating.


03.01.2009: 0305 LT: Posn: 03:49.6N – 077:09.4W, Buenaventura anchorage, Colombia.

One robber was sighted near the forward cargo compartment on a bulk carrier at anchor. Master raised alarm and mustered ship’s crew. Master reported to the coast guard. Later the man jumped overboard and escaped. Coast guard boarded for investigation.


04.01.2009: 05:40 UTC: Posn: 13:3.0N – 048:42.5E, Gulf of Aden.

Six pirates in one white coloured speed boat attempted to board a bulk carrier underway. Three of these pirates were armed with machine guns and opened fire on the vessel. Master carried out evasive manoeuvres and contacted a coalition warship. Within 15 minutes a helicopter arrived at the location. The speed boats moved away on seeing the helicopter. No injuries to the crew and no damages to the ship.


02.01.2009: 0807 UTC: Posn: 13:42N - 050:39E, Gulf of Aden.

Pirates in three skiffs attacked a tanker underway. They fired upon the tanker and attempted to board. Master raised alarm, contacted coalition warships, increased speed and took evasive manoeuvres. A coalition helicopter arrived and the pirates aborted the attempt.


02.01.2009: 0427 UTC: Posn: 13:11N - 047:32.5E, Gulf of Aden.

Pirates in speed boats approached a tanker underway. One speed boat was spotted four nm and the other two were drifting seven nm ahead of the tanker. Master raised alarm, increased speed, took evasive manoeuvres and crew activated anti-piracy measures. The first speed boat came within two meters of the stbd quarter and fired upon the tanker. Master saw five pirates armed with machine guns. Coalition warships contacted. Pirates aborted the attempt after five minutes.


01.01.2009: 0747 LT: Posn: 13:55N - 047:58E, Gulf of Aden.

Armed pirates attacked and hijacked a general cargo ship underway. 28 crewmembers taken hostage.


01.01.2009: 1230 UTC: Posn: 13:53N - 049:29E, Gulf of Aden.

Four pirates in a speed boat attacked a bulk carrier underway. They fired upon the ship with automatic weapons and attempted to board. Master raised alarm, increased speed and took evasive manoeuvres. Pirates aborted the attempted attack.


01.01.2009: 0337 UTC: Posn: 13:05N – 047:03E: Gulf of Aden.

Two skiffs approached a tanker underway and opened fire with automatic weapons. Master increased speed and made evasive manoeuvres, and sent a distress message via VHF radio. A warship and a helicopter were sent to assist the tanker. Upon seeing the warship and helicopter the skiff moved away.


31.12.2008: Posn: 13:8.0N – 47:27.0E: 1330 UTC: Gulf of Aden.

A bulk carrier underway was chased and fired upon by pirates in speed boat. Naval warships informed and attack was prevented. Further report is awaited.


http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=308&Itemid=10

[Mrs Robinson]

MOGADISHU, Somalia (AP) - Five of the Somali pirates who released a hijacked oil-laden Saudi supertanker drowned with their share of a reported $3 million ransom after their small boat capsized, a pirate and a relative of one of the dead men said Saturday.

"The boat the pirates were traveling in capsized because it was running at high speed because the pirates were afraid of an attack from the warships patrolling around," he said.

"There has been human and monetary loss but what makes us feel sad is that we don't still have the dead bodies of our relatives. Four are still missing and one washed up on the shore."
link (http://apnews.myway.com/article/20090110/D95KBNE80.html)

:0009: Is it wrong to feel good about this story?

[texanne]

I would feel better if they had died due to being blown out of the water. That way it would send a message that hopefully would deter more piracy. The international community needs to put an end to piracy on high seas. With todays technology, it baffles me as to why it can happen. The shipping companies have to get tough and provide REAL security.

[KittyMom]

I would feel better if they had died due to being blown out of the water. That way it would send a message that hopefully would deter more piracy. The international community needs to put an end to piracy on high seas. With todays technology, it baffles me as to why it can happen. The shipping companies have to get tough and provide REAL security.

I agree with everything you've said.

[Firehead]

I just think it is poetic justice !

[awakening2lite]

Weekly Piracy Report (http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=308:weekly-piracy-report&catid=32:weekly-piracy-report&Itemid=119) 20 January 2009 - 26 January 2009
Suspicious crafts
None reported
Recently reported incidents


22.01.2009: 2050 LT: Pampallia port, Peru.

A chemical tanker, at berth was boarded by an unknown number of robbers, while cargo operations were in progress. The deck security watchman was found to be beaten up and tied up. Upon searching, no robbers were found onboard. Authorities were informed and a coast guard boat arrived and conducted an investigation. Ship’s stores were stolen. Injured crew was sent ashore for medical treatment and later returned to vessel.


19.01.2009: 2300 LT: Tema roads, Ghana.

Robbers boarded a container ship at anchor. They broke into a container and escaped with its contents and other ship's stores.


17.01.2009: 2200 LT: Posn: 04:10N - 007:14E, bonny offshore terminal, SPM-1, Nigeria.

Robbers armed with automatic weapons and explosives boarded and attacked a line tug being used by a tanker undergoing loading operations. The line tug captain was killed in the attack. The robbers later approached the tanker and threw grenades which luckily did not hit the tanker. Robbers gained entry into the accommodation by firing on one of the accommodation doors. The crew locked themselves in the engine room for safety. Crew and ship's property was stolen by the robbers. The attack lasted nearly one hour. All crew are safe.


11.01.2009: 0255 LT: Guanta port, Venezuela.

Four robbers armed with long knives boarded a container ship during cargo operations. They broke open one reefer container and stole contents from it. Upon seeing the watchman, the robbers escaped. Port police informed.


http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=308&Itemid=10

[awakening2lite]

Somali pirates free Japanese-owned ship


2/13/09

NAIROBI, Kenya (http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2009/02/13/news/Piracy-Japanese-Ship.php#): Somali pirates have released a Japanese-owned cargo ship and its 23 crew members after nearly three months in captivity, a diplomat said Friday.


The Nairobi, Kenya-based diplomat, who asked not to be named because he was not authorized to speak to the media, said the ship carrying unidentified chemicals was released Thursday night.


The MV Chemstar Venus, owned by a Japanese shipping company and registered in Panama, was seized by armed Somali gunmen on Nov. 15 in the Gulf of Aden. On board were five South Koreans and 18 Filipinos.


Thursday's release came as a maritime watchdog warned on Friday that the pirate attacks off Somalia have risen sharply as weather improved. Piracy off Somalia, which has not had a functioning government since 1991, peaked between September and November last year. Somali pirates, seeking multimillion-dollar ransoms, launched 111 attacks and seized 42 vessels last year, mostly in the Gulf of Aden.


Also Friday, the Russian navy said its heavy missile cruiser Peter The Great had detained 10 Somali pirates who were closing in on an Iranian-flagged fishing trawler Thursday. Military prosecutors were interviewing the men, who were caught with rifles, grenade-launchers, illegal narcotics and a large sum of money, the navy said.

Worldwide, 49 vessels were hijacked and 889 crew members were taken hostage — the highest figures since the London-based International Maritime Bureau began keeping records in 1991.


The increased danger led the United States, India, Britain, China, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Korea and other countries to send warships to the area to protect commercial vessels and more quickly rush to their aid.


Despite the measures, the attacks have continued, and the International Maritime Bureau warned on Friday ships plying the popular trade route off eastern Africa to be more vigilant.


Noel Choong, who heads the bureau's piracy reporting center in Kuala Lumpur, said six ships were attacked on Wednesday and Thursday alone.
"We haven't seen such an increase in attacks for some time," he said.


Since the beginning of January, 22 vessels had been attacked, and three were hijacked. Choong said favorable weather made it easier for the smaller pirate boats to ambush ships. He also said seven ships have been released over the past month, likely pushing pirates to try to replenish their stocks.


http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2009/02/13/news/Piracy-Japanese-Ship.php

[awakening2lite]

Ukraine sailors home after 5 months held by pirates

Fri Feb 13, 2009

KIEV, Feb 13 (Reuters) - Sailors held captive by Somali pirates for five months returned home on Friday as Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko vowed to try to stamp out hijackings on the high seas.

Twenty crew members of the MV Faina trooped down a gangway at Kiev's international airport to be greeted by the president and overjoyed relatives who whisked them away quickly. The crew included 17 Ukrainians, two Russians and a Latvian.

At least one crew member was nursing a broken arm and another was limping badly. Most were wearing military-style camouflage fatigues.

"We have decided to take part in an international initiative within the EU's programme to fight piracy," Yushchenko told the gathering.

"Talks are now proceeding on our participation. But we must now pay several million dollars so that our ships may be present there to protect ships under a Ukrainian flag."

In one of the highest-profile seizures of recent times, pirates captured the Faina in September with its crew and a cargo of 33 Soviet-era T-72 tanks plus other weapons.

The Faina's Russian captain died in the first days of the hijacking. His body was taken off the ship at the Kenyan port of Mombasa on Thursday, where it docked after the pirates released the vessel after receiving a ransom.

Maritime sources and members of the gang said the ship's owners paid the pirates $3.2 million.

Crew member Alexander Presukha, speaking before boarding the plane in Mombasa, said the psychological effects of their captivity were only now becoming apparent.

"It's more difficult psychologically now than when the pirates were on board the ship," Presukha told reporters. "It's only now you understand fully what happened."

A man identified by Ukraine's Fifth Channel Television as an owner of the vessel, Vadim Alperin, said negotiations with the pirates had been long and difficult.

"Pirates are not a civilised organisation. This is a mob made up of different clans who cannot agree among themselves," he told Fifth Channel.

"First of all, they cannot divide up money or do anything else. To put it bluntly, nearly five times preliminary agreements were reached and then turned out to be inconclusive."

Controversy still surrounds the ultimate destination of the Faina's cargo.

A regional maritime group based in Kenya, and foreign diplomats in the region, have said it was destined for south Sudan via Kenya -- a possible embarrassment for Kenya, which helped broker a 2005 peace deal in Sudan.

Kenyan and Ukrainian officials deny that. (Writing by Ron Popeski; editing by Andrew Roche)

http://www.reuters.com/article/africaCrisis/idUSLD745744

[awakening2lite]

Rights Group Questions US Deal to Send Pirates to Kenya

By Alisha Ryu
Nairobi
13 February 2009

http://www.voanews.com/english/images/us-navy-somalia-pirates-190eng12feb09_1.jpg
Alleged Somali pirates in Gulf of Aden raise their hands as US Navy teams in inflatable boats approach and a Navy helicopter patrols overhead, 12 Feb 2009

The U.S. Navy says it is holding 16 suspected pirates it captured off the coast of Somalia aboard a warship while awaiting orders to move the suspects to Kenya for prosecution. The agreement to hand over suspected pirates to Kenya was reached last month between the U.S. and Kenyan governments. But, the agreement has raised questions and concern from a leading human rights group.

The U.S. Navy seized seven men on Tuesday and nine more on Thursday after responding to distress calls from vessels sailing through the Gulf of Aden. In both incidents, a boarding team from the naval ship USS Vella Gulf found automatic rifles, rocket-propelled grenade launchers and other weapons aboard the skiffs used by the suspected hijackers.

The 16 men, believed to be Somali nationals, are expected to be held aboard another U.S. warship until they can be handed over to authorities in Kenya for prosecution.

Last month, Kenya signed a memorandum of understanding with the United States to accept suspected pirates captured by U.S. forces and try them on Kenyan soil. Details of the agreement were not made public and the U.S. ambassador to Kenya, Michael Ranneburger, said talks were still ongoing on how to implement it.

Ben Rawlence of the New York-based Human Rights Watch tells VOA that his group is concerned that in its eagerness to bring pirates to justice, the United States may be overlooking a critical problem in Kenya, which is likely to affect the way pirates are detained and prosecuted.

"There are major, major problems with the Kenyan justice system," he said. "No one really is guaranteed the right to a fair trial in that system. The police have a terrible record of long periods of detention without trial, terrible conditions in the prisons, very poor record of access to legal representation, interminable delays in the court process. The Kenyan justice system is in a terrible state."

In 2007, after the fall of the Islamic Courts Union in Somalia, Muslim and human rights groups, including Human Rights Watch, sharply criticized Kenya for what they said was the arbitrarily detention of at least 150 people suspected of being terrorists. Human Rights Watch said that as many as 85 people were secretly deported from Kenya to Somalia at the request of U.S., Somali, and Ethiopian governments.

Rawlence says charges of mistreatment or abuse of suspected Somali pirates brought to Kenya under a vague, little publicized agreement could again stir up anger and resentment among Muslims in Somalia and the region.

"There is a very real risk that this agreement might be perceived as an attack on Muslims. Anything that the United States does is subject to a high degree of suspicion," he said. "Any kind of secret agreement is bound to spawn all sorts of speculation about what sort of nefarious practices are going on. So, it is in the interest of the U.S. and Kenya to be as open and as transparent as possible about this."

Eight Somalis captured last November by the British navy are in jail in Kenya accused of trying to hijack a Danish freighter. The trial began in December but was postponed until January 14. It has not yet resumed. The accused pirates' attorney has complained that the men are being mistreated in prison.

In December, Kenya also signed an agreement with Britain to prosecute suspected pirates captured by the British.


http://www.voanews.com/english/2009-02-13-voa43.cfm

[awakening2lite]

Incident Details: Location Map

22.02.2009: 0400 UTC: Posn: 12:33.98N - 047:01.32E, Gulf of Aden.

Armed pirates attacked a bulk carrier underway. They boarded the ship, took hostage crewmembers and hijacked it to an undisclosed location. Further details are awaited.
http://maps.google.com/staticmap?center=12.566,%2047.022&zoom=4&size=120x90&maptype=mobile&markers=12.566,%2047.022,&key=ABQIAAAAAEzItJKfvpAHCvK2hI21RxQ3ITamfg1iad117l hf1lcz7AdiNBSF13d1vlTJOvt39iImirvji6MfQghttp://www.icc-ccs.org/components/com_fabrik/plugins/element/fabrikgooglemap/images/zoomout.pnghttp://www.icc-ccs.org/components/com_fabrik/plugins/element/fabrikgooglemap/images/zoomin.png

(http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_fabrik&c=form&view=details&Itemid=82&fabrik=28&rowid=2126&fabrik_cursor=0&fabrik_total=0&tableid=26) 21.02.2009: 1900 UTC: Posn: 14:31.1N - 053:43.1E, Gulf of Aden.

Pirates in an unlit high-speed boat chased a general cargo ship underway. The boat came close to the ship and attempted to board. Master raised alarm, increased speed, took evasive manoeuvres, crew switched on additional lighting and activated fire hoses. The pirates aborted the attempt due to the evasive manoeuvres taken by the ship.
http://maps.google.com/staticmap?center=14.518,%2053.71833&zoom=4&size=120x90&maptype=mobile&markers=14.518,%2053.71833,&key=ABQIAAAAAEzItJKfvpAHCvK2hI21RxQ3ITamfg1iad117l hf1lcz7AdiNBSF13d1vlTJOvt39iImirvji6MfQghttp://www.icc-ccs.org/components/com_fabrik/plugins/element/fabrikgooglemap/images/zoomout.pnghttp://www.icc-ccs.org/components/com_fabrik/plugins/element/fabrikgooglemap/images/zoomin.png

(http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_fabrik&c=form&view=details&Itemid=82&fabrik=28&rowid=2125&fabrik_cursor=1&fabrik_total=0&tableid=26) 19.02.2009: 0630 UTC: Posn: 05:10.5N – 099:06.03E, Malacca Straits.

12 pirates in a boat boarded a tug and a barge underway. They stole ship’s navigational, radio, personal belongings and kidnapped the master and the chief officer before leaving the vessel. The 2nd officer is navigating the vessels to a nearest port.
http://maps.google.com/staticmap?center=5.175,%2099.105&zoom=4&size=120x90&maptype=mobile&markers=5.175,%2099.105,&key=ABQIAAAAAEzItJKfvpAHCvK2hI21RxQ3ITamfg1iad117l hf1lcz7AdiNBSF13d1vlTJOvt39iImirvji6MfQghttp://www.icc-ccs.org/components/com_fabrik/plugins/element/fabrikgooglemap/images/zoomout.pnghttp://www.icc-ccs.org/components/com_fabrik/plugins/element/fabrikgooglemap/images/zoomin.png

(http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_fabrik&c=form&view=details&Itemid=82&fabrik=28&rowid=2123&fabrik_cursor=2&fabrik_total=0&tableid=26) 19.02.2009: 1630 UTC: Posn: 04:33N - 052:55E, East coast Somalia.

Five pirates in a boat fired upon a fishing trawler underway. Pirates attempted to board the ship. Master carryout evasive maneuvers, increased speed and moved away. The ship sustained bullet hole damage. There was no leakage and no casualties.
http://maps.google.com/staticmap?center=4.55,%2052.9167&zoom=4&size=120x90&maptype=mobile&markers=4.55,%2052.9167,&key=ABQIAAAAAEzItJKfvpAHCvK2hI21RxQ3ITamfg1iad117l hf1lcz7AdiNBSF13d1vlTJOvt39iImirvji6MfQghttp://www.icc-ccs.org/components/com_fabrik/plugins/element/fabrikgooglemap/images/zoomout.pnghttp://www.icc-ccs.org/components/com_fabrik/plugins/element/fabrikgooglemap/images/zoomin.png

(http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_fabrik&c=form&view=details&Itemid=82&fabrik=28&rowid=2124&fabrik_cursor=3&fabrik_total=0&tableid=26) 18.02.2009: 1055 LT: Callao anchorage, Peru.

An anchored container ship, waiting for a bunker barge, was approached by two small boats. The two boats asked for heaving lines to assist securing the Bunker barge. The OOW suspecting them for robbers and raised the alarm. Crew mustered. While the attention of the ship’s crew was diverted robbers gained access onto the ship probably via the anchor chain and stole ship store, which was only realized when an inspection was carried out.
http://maps.google.com/staticmap?center=-12.03,%20-77.21&zoom=4&size=120x90&maptype=mobile&markers=-12.03,%20-77.21,&key=ABQIAAAAAEzItJKfvpAHCvK2hI21RxQ3ITamfg1iad117l hf1lcz7AdiNBSF13d1vlTJOvt39iImirvji6MfQghttp://www.icc-ccs.org/components/com_fabrik/plugins/element/fabrikgooglemap/images/zoomout.pnghttp://www.icc-ccs.org/components/com_fabrik/plugins/element/fabrikgooglemap/images/zoomin.png

(http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_fabrik&c=form&view=details&Itemid=82&fabrik=28&rowid=2122&fabrik_cursor=4&fabrik_total=0&tableid=26) 14.02.2009: 0030 UTC: Dar es Salaam roads, Tanzania.

Three robbers armed with knives boarded a container ship at anchor. They tied up the duty A/B, took his personnel belongings and then opened a container and stole the cargo. At 0200 UTC, the robbers left the ship in a small boat after releasing the duty A/B. Port authorities informed but no action taken.
http://maps.google.com/staticmap?center=-6.7316,%2039.31333&zoom=4&size=120x90&maptype=mobile&markers=-6.7316,%2039.31333,&key=ABQIAAAAAEzItJKfvpAHCvK2hI21RxQ3ITamfg1iad117l hf1lcz7AdiNBSF13d1vlTJOvt39iImirvji6MfQghttp://www.icc-ccs.org/components/com_fabrik/plugins/element/fabrikgooglemap/images/zoomout.pnghttp://www.icc-ccs.org/components/com_fabrik/plugins/element/fabrikgooglemap/images/zoomin.png

(http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_fabrik&c=form&view=details&Itemid=82&fabrik=28&rowid=2118&fabrik_cursor=5&fabrik_total=0&tableid=26) 14.02.2009: 0300 LT: Callao anchorage, Peru.

Robbers boarded a container ship at anchorage. They broke open the bosun store and stole ship’s stores. Master informed local police but the authorities did not attend.
http://maps.google.com/staticmap?center=-12.03,%20-77.21&zoom=4&size=120x90&maptype=mobile&markers=-12.03,%20-77.21,&key=ABQIAAAAAEzItJKfvpAHCvK2hI21RxQ3ITamfg1iad117l hf1lcz7AdiNBSF13d1vlTJOvt39iImirvji6MfQghttp://www.icc-ccs.org/components/com_fabrik/plugins/element/fabrikgooglemap/images/zoomout.pnghttp://www.icc-ccs.org/components/com_fabrik/plugins/element/fabrikgooglemap/images/zoomin.png

(http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_fabrik&c=form&view=details&Itemid=82&fabrik=28&rowid=2119&fabrik_cursor=6&fabrik_total=0&tableid=26) 14.02.2009: 2130 UTC: Lagos anchorage, Nigeria.

Around 12 to 14 robbers wearing masks and armed with AK 47 automatic weapons boarded a tanker at anchor. They took the bosun as hostage and forced him to guide them to the bridge. They opened fire and destroyed ships communication system and then robbed ship’s stores and personal belongings and then departed after 30 to 40 minutes. No crew injured.

http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_fabrik&view=table&tableid=26&calculations=0&Itemid=82

[awakening2lite]

Yachtpals Piracy Report

EXCERPT ~ FEB 21

Pirate Attacks on Sailing Yachts - Piracy Warnings



EXCERPT

It seems that the world has begun to awaken to the facts that: A) piracy still exists, and B) pirates are much more like muggers, carjackers and murderous thugs than they are like Johnny Depp. In the last several months, we've been inundated with requests by reporters from major newspaper, radio and TV outlets for information about piracy and pirates - you may have noticed that it's hot news. As we've mentioned previously, this is a double-edged sword. While bringing these criminals into the public eye forces governments to take a stand, it also allows the pirates who kidnap crews to ask for higher and higher ransoms.

The purpose of this is not to frighten people. The fact is that being attacked on a private yacht is relatively rare in most areas of the world. However, there are certain hotspots where it is best to be on guard, and some which should be avoided. You'll notice below that many places are on the warning list, even though there were no reported attacks against yachts. These areas have been identified either because local criminal activity, or piracy against other vessels are taken as evidence of a potential risk to yachts. Though nothing is officially reported, the issue in many of these places is that "piracy against a yacht" simply doesn't exist as a legal definition.

This is why Piracy (http://yachtpals.com/taxonomy/term/1157) against yachts is often completely unreported. In many parts of the world, if you are boarded, beaten and robbed on your boat, it's not reported as piracy. In the interest of tourism, most crimes are downplayed, and piracy is defined right out of existence. It doesn't help that the UN only defines piracy as being in international waters. By this definition, most of the pirates of old would have been considered simply local thugs and thieves. Thus, even with all of YachtPals' contacts and resources, it's hard to report about this kind of crime, so we're turning to you for help.




Follow link for piracy reports on private yachts around the world:

http://yachtpals.com/pirates-yachts-4092

[awakening2lite]

Piracy Alert
02 March 2009 Gulf of Aden and off Somalia.
In an effort to counter Piracy in the Gulf of Aden and off the east coast of Somalia industry bodies including the Internaional Maritime Bureau have published the Best Managment Practice (BMP) guidelines. Please click here (http://www.icc-ccs.org/images/stories/pdfs/bmp.pdf) to download a copy of the BMP pdf.
Attacks reported in the Gulf of Aden
Warning to all ships transiting Gulf of Aden
To ensure stray bullets do not hit and injur / kill, crew are advised to remain inside the accommodation away from all bulkheads. Further crew are adivsed to keep fire fighting appliances in a state of readiness at all times in order to fight any fires which may break out dur to the firing.
http://www.icc-ccs.org/images/stories/IMB_PRC/suspicious%20skiff%202.bmpSuspicious Skiff

In the past two days, pirates have been actively attacking vessels with intent to hijack. It appears that favourable weather conditions in the area and the high number of hijacked vessel that have been released recently may have prompted the pirates to actively seek for new targets.
All ships are strongly advised to maintain a strict 24 hours visual and radar watch while transiting the Gulf of Aden and off the east cost of Africa (Tanzania,Kenya and Somalia). Early assessment / detection will allow ships to take evasive measures to prevent boarding and request for assistance.
All attacks and suspicious sightings should be reported to the IMB Piracy Reporting Centre.
Tel: +603 2031 0014 / +603 2078 5763
email: piracy@icc-ccs.orgThis e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it / imbkl@icc-ccs.orgThis e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it


Intelligence sources revealed that there are a number of suspicious vessels in the Gulf of Aden believed to be pirate mother vessels looking to attack ships with the intent to hijack.

The description of the suspected trawlers - long white, Russian made stern trawlers with names "BURUM OCEAN or ARENA or ATHENA". One of the trawlers is believed to be operating at approximately 60 NM NE of Bossasso, Somalia in the Gulf of Aden. Also intelligence indicates a blue-coloured tug operating in the same vicinity
The centre has received information that the suspected pirate mother ships are at the following positions:
BLUE-COLOURED TUG: 1159N 05056E at 25 0500 UTC Aug 08
Fishing trawler BURUM OCEAN: 1411N 04951E at 25 0930 UTC Aug 08
Suspected Pirate Mother Vessels:
http://www.icc-ccs.org/images/stories/IMB_PRC/suspected%20mothership.bmpSuspected Mother Vessel, name unknown

http://www.icc-ccs.org/images/stories/IMB_PRC/burum1.jpg

BURUM OCEAN
http://www.icc-ccs.org/images/stories/IMB_PRC/burum2.jpg

BURUM OCEAN
http://www.icc-ccs.org/images/stories/IMB_PRC/athena_sml.jpg

ARENA or ATHENA
Source: Coalition Forces

http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&id=59:piracy-alert&layout=blog&Itemid=60

[packy]

http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/world/la-fg-somalia-hijack-americans9-2009apr09,0,7672354.story

Reporting from Nairobi, Kenya -- A U.S.-flagged cargo ship that routinely works under contract to the Department of Defense and its all-American crew were hijacked today by pirates operating off the Horn of Africa.

The crew of 20 is believed to be safe and the vessel is heading toward the coast of Somalia, maritime officials said.

The early-morning attack of the Danish-owned cargo ship occurred about 240 nautical miles southeast of the Somali port city of Eyl in the Indian Ocean, according to U.S. naval officials.

The ship's owner, Norfolk, Va.-based Maersk Line Ltd., a subsidiary of Denmark's A.P. Moller-Maersk, is a longtime Defense Department shipping contractor, operating at times with top security clearance.

But the hijacked vessel, the Maersk Alabama, was not sailing under a Defense Department contract at the time of the attack, according to Lt. Nathan Christensen, a spokesman from the U.S. 5th Fleet in Bahrain.


A Maersk spokeswoman in Copenhagen said the ship was carrying food and "relief aid," but she did not know the final destination of the cargo.

The attack marks a rare hijacking of a U.S.-operated ship in Africa, where piracy has been surging along Somalia's coast and in the Gulf of Aden. (pics and more at link)

[packy]

Crew has regained control. Good! http://blogs.usatoday.com/ondeadline/2009/04/white-house-monitoring-hijacking-of-us-crew.html

[packy]

Now I am hearing on the news that the captain is still being held hostage and the crew had one of the hijackers held with them, but they returned the hostage in exchange for the captain but the hijackers did not yet return the captain. They are waiting for a ship to come and help but it will be some time yet before it gets there.

[texanne]

The waters in that section are dangerous due to the laws that protect the pirates once they retreat out of international waters. The U.S. Navy is prevented from entering certain waters unless they are in "hot pursuit'. I'm thinking that ships working that part of the oceans should hire guards capable of manning mounted machine guns, etc. The problem of other shipping companies paying huge ransoms has created the problem. JMO

[packy]

The news is saying that Captain Richard Phillips is being held in a boat that is running out of gas.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/04/08/captain-richard-phillips_n_184804.html

In an interview with CNN, a second mate of the ship confirms that the captain is still being held hostage by the pirates:

In a telephone interview with CNN, Ken Quinn, a second mate on the ship, said the hostage was the captain who was in a lifeboat with the armed pirates who sank their boat when they seized the ship. He said the captain was communicating with the crew on a radio and that a Navy destroyer was on its way. (More at Link)

[packy]

He tried to escape apparently out of a back door of the enclosed life boat.

http://edition.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/africa/04/10/somalia.u.s.ship/

MANAMA, Bahrain (CNN) -- Richard Phillips, the captain of a U.S.-flagged cargo ship, tried to escape from his captors Thursday night by jumping out of the lifeboat off Somalia's coast, a U.S. official said Friday.


Capt. Richard Phillips of the Maersk Alabama is being held by pirates on a lifeboat off Somalia.

1 of 2 Phillips was believed to be trying to swim to the USS Bainbridge, a naval warship that is in communication with the gunmen holding Phillips, the official said.

The kidnappers jumped into the water, recaptured him, and returned him to the lifeboat off Somalia's coast, according to the official.

The U.S. military has every reason to believe that he was unharmed in the incident, the official said. He has been held since Wednesday when the hijackers briefly seized control of his boat, the Maersk Alabama. (more at link)

[F~M]

I have a feeling some U.S. Navy SEALS will go in tonight, after dark, and rescue this man. Just a feeling in my gut.

[packy]

I have a feeling some U.S. Navy SEALS will go in tonight, after dark, and rescue this man. Just a feeling in my gut.

Hope he will be rescued soon, F~M. They shot at him when he tried to escape.

I just heard that France is having a problem too in which a privated yacht was hijacked and one passenger shot. Children on board are okay. No link yet that I found.

[F~M]

Hope he will be rescued soon, F~M. They shot at him when he tried to escape.

I just heard that France is having a problem too in which a privated yacht was hijacked and one passenger shot. Children on board are okay. No link yet that I found.


Oh my goodness.

I have faith in the US Navy. The SEALS will do what they're trained to do and rescue him. We may never hear the true details because so many missions are secret, but I feel like this will end with the Captain being safe.

I'm thinking that people don't realize what a problem piracy has become. It's pretty scarey.

[packy]

It is scary and I believe that something is going on behind the scenes that we don't know about.

[F~M]

It is scary and I believe that something is going on behind the scenes that we don't know about.

No doubt about that.

Those pirates won't know wth is going on when they get hit.

[packy]

http://abcnews.go.com/International/story?id=7305282&page=1

Somali pirates recaptured an American captain who tried a daring escape from their lifeboat during the night and then threatened to kill him if the U.S. Navy attempted to rescue him.
Captive Capt. Phillips attempts unsuccessful escape from bandit lifeboat. The pirates, marooned on a small boat in the Indian Ocean and stalked by a U.S. warship, demanded a ransom today for the safe release of Capt. Richard Phillips.

(more at link)

[F~M]

That's why I believe the Navy will send in SEALS. The SEALS could get the captain before the pirates ever realized what was happening.

I'm just waiting on this to happen. :|

[awakening2lite]

http://abcnews.go.com/International/story?id=7305282&page=1

Somali pirates recaptured an American captain who tried a daring escape from their lifeboat during the night and then threatened to kill him if the U.S. Navy attempted to rescue him.
Captive Capt. Phillips attempts unsuccessful escape from bandit lifeboat. The pirates, marooned on a small boat in the Indian Ocean and stalked by a U.S. warship, demanded a ransom today for the safe release of Capt. Richard Phillips.

(more at link)


The inflatable can only have limited life sustaining supplies. It is out of gas and stranded in the water without support from its mother ship.

I wonder if the US will simply sit and wait for them to become thirsty and exchange water for the captain.

It is a wonder they have not used snipers to take out the pirates or to shoot holes in the inflatable craft.

But, most amazing of all is that the pirates dared to seize a ship flying an American Flag. Does that say more about us, and how the world perceives us, or them?

[african grey]

That's why I believe the Navy will send in SEALS. The SEALS could get the captain before the pirates ever realized what was happening.

I'm just waiting on this to happen. :|

My husband was in the Navy for 22 years so I asked him why the SEALS have not gone in and rescued the Captain. He said it is because the raft is so small, in open water and there is no way for the Seals to get near the raft without getting shot. If they were still on the ship then the SEALS would have already gone in and rescued him. I just hope a deal is made soon and he gets out of this alive. A CEO from one of the shiipping companies that was pirated a few months ago was on television this morning, he said that his company ended up paying the ransom to get their people back. It may come down to paying the ransom for the captain to get him back. I hope they don't have to go this far because the piracy needs to stop. Its not like the pirates are taking anything they get back to their people, they just want the money. A poster on another board suggested putinng sleeping pills in the food when they delivered it and aftertey passed out grab the captain. Sounds like a plan to me. Here's hoping he is released soon.

JMHO
AG

[F~M]

My husband was in the Navy for 22 years so I asked him why the SEALS have not gone in and rescued the Captain. He said it is because the raft is so small, in open water and there is no way for the Seals to get near the raft without getting shot. If they were still on the ship then the SEALS would have already gone in and rescued him. I just hope a deal is made soon and he gets out of this alive. A CEO from one of the shiipping companies that was pirated a few months ago was on television this morning, he said that his company ended up paying the ransom to get their people back. It may come down to paying the ransom for the captain to get him back. I hope they don't have to go this far because the piracy needs to stop. Its not like the pirates are taking anything they get back to their people, they just want the money. A poster on another board suggested putinng sleeping pills in the food when they delivered it and aftertey passed out grab the captain. Sounds like a plan to me. Here's hoping he is released soon.

JMHO
AG

Ok.. that makes sense about the SEALS.

My husband had the same idea about the sleeping pills. I just hope they do something fast.

[packy]

Captain is safe and three pirates were killed.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/africa/7996087.stm

The captain of a US container ship taken hostage by Somali pirates has been released, US media report.

According to initial reports, three pirates were killed in the operation to free Captain Richard Phillips. Another is in custody.

Capt Phillips is said to be unhurt and on the USS Bainbridge, a warship sent to track the pirates holding him.

He was taken hostage last Wednesday after pirates briefly hijacked his ship, the Maersk Alabama. (more at link)

[Isabella]

American captain rescued, pirates killed, U.S. official says

(CNN) -- The captain of the Maersk Alabama was freed Sunday after being held captive since Wednesday by pirates off the coast of Somalia, a senior U.S. official with knowledge of the situation told CNN.

The official said Capt. Richard Phillips is uninjured and in good condition, and that three of the four pirates were killed. The fourth pirate is in custody. Phillips was taken aboard the USS Bainbridge, a nearby naval warship.

Earlier Sunday afternoon Maersk Line Limited, owner of the Maersk Alabama, said the U.S. Navy informed the company that it had sighted Phillips in a lifeboat where pirates are holding him.

Phillips was spotted another time earlier in the day, the Navy said.

A man who answered the door at Phillips' home in Underhill, Vermont, told CNN's Stephanie Elam that the family has known the news for hours. He said details would have to come from Virginia, apparently referring to the home base of Maersk Line Limited, based in Norfolk, which owns the ship.

On Saturday, the FBI launched a criminal investigation into the hijacking of the U.S.-flagged cargo ship by Somali pirates, two law enforcement officials told CNN. The probe will be led by the FBI's New York field office, which is responsible for looking into cases involving U.S. citizens in the African region, the officials said.

The Maersk Alabama reached port in Mombasa, Kenya, on Saturday. Crew members aboard the freed cargo ship described how some of their colleagues attempted to "jump" their pirate captors.

A scuffle ensued and one of the sailors stabbed a pirate in the hand in the battle to retake the container ship, one of the sailors told CNN.

Snippets of information are starting to emerge about how the Alabama's crew managed to retake the ship after it was hijacked by pirates Wednesday about 350 miles off the coast of Somalia in the Indian Ocean.

Crew members smiled broadly as they stood on the ship's deck under the watchful eyes of security teams. Although the crew was kept away from the media, CNN's Stan Grant got close enough to ask crew members what happened after the pirates climbed aboard the ship.

http://www.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/africa/04/12/somalia.pirates/index.html

[Faith]

Thank God he is safe. Navy Seals do not play.

[Isabella]

Ship Captain Rescued From Somali Pirates

Three pirates were killed and one was in custody after what appeared to be a swift firefight off the Somali coast, the official said.

Phillips, who was not hurt, was safely transported to a Navy warship nearby.


The official was not authorized to discuss the matter publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity.

Talks began Thursday with the captain of the USS Bainbridge talking to the pirates under instruction from FBI hostage negotiators on board the U.S. destroyer.

U.S. warships and helicopters stalked the lifeboat holding Phillips and his four Somali captors Sunday, while his crew briefed FBI agents about how they fought off the pirates who boarded their ship, the Maersk Alabama.

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,514719,00.html

[Isabella]

Thank God he is safe. Navy Seals do not play.
No they don't..

I am so happy for him and his family, and to happen on
Easter Sunday is great!

[Roamer]

http://www.abc3340.com/news/stories/0409/612599.html






Official: US sea captain freed in swift firefight
posted 04/12/09 1:28 pm



MOMBASA, Kenya - An American ship captain was freed unharmed Sunday in a swift firefight that killed three of the four Somali pirates who had been holding him for days in a lifeboat off the coast of Africa, the ship's owner said and a U.S. official said. A senior U.S. intelligence official said a pirate who had been involved in negotiations to free Capt. Richard Phillips but who was not on the lifeboat was in custody.

Phillips, 53, of Underhill, Vermont, was safely transported to a Navy warship nearby.

Maersk Line Limited President and CEO John Reinhart said in a news release that the U.S. government informed the company around 1:30 p.m. EDT Sunday that Phillips had been rescued. Reinhart said the company called Phillips' wife, Andrea, to tell her the news.



The U.S. official was not authorized to discuss the matter publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity. A Pentagon spokesman had no immediate comment.

When Phillips' crew heard the news aboard their ship in the port of Mombasa, they placed an American flag over the rail of the top of the Maersk Alabama and whistled and pumped their fists in the air. Crew fired a bright red flare into the sky from the ship.

[Faith]

No they don't..

I am so happy for him and his family, and to happen on
Easter Sunday is great!

I have a friend that is retired Navy Seal. He isn't allowed to talk about much but he's told me some stories. :shock:

Seeing Captain Richard Phillips free on the Navy Ship is awesome!!

[Faith]

http://www.foxnews.com/images/root_images/041209_RESCUE04.jpg

April 12: Captain Richard Phillips after his rescue.

[Faith]

http://www.foxnews.com/images/526013/3_64_040908_pirates01.jpg
The USS Bainbridge, a guided missile destroyer
sent to the scene where pirates captured a vessel
with a U.S. crew off Somalia's coast.

[african grey]

http://www.foxnews.com/images/526013/3_64_040908_pirates01.jpg
The USS Bainbridge, a guided missile destroyer
sent to the scene where pirates captured a vessel
with a U.S. crew off Somalia's coast.

I am just glad he is safe. We did not think the Seals could get close enough and I haven't found out yet how they did it but I am just glad they did. Hubby said you can never tell how the Navy might handle things and he is glad to have been wrong about the Seals not being able to get close. Maybe this will help to stop some of the piracy coming out of Somalia and other places.

AG
JMHO

[awakening2lite]

EXCERPT

MOMBASA, Kenya – U.S. Navy snipers opened fire and killed three pirates holding an American captain at gunpoint, delivering the skipper unharmed and ending a five-day high-seas hostage drama on Easter Sunday.


Capt. Richard Phillips was in "imminent danger" of being killed before snipers shot the pirates in an operation authorized by President Barack Obama, Vice Adm. Bill Gortney said.



http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/piracy

[nanabillie]

It just made my day! I have been so concerned for him. Now I am concerned for others. The pirates have made statements that now they will do harm to any American or Frence citizen that they see.

[F~M]

I knew the SEALS would do it!! I absolutely knew they would!

Never doubt the US Navy!

ETA: SEALS are taught how to swim without making a sound, splash, etc. I guarantee you they were right up on that lifeboat before the pirates had a clue.

[F~M]

I went outside and came back in to hear that it was snipers (SEALS) that took them out. Three simultaneous shots to their heads.

So, they weren't in the water, but on the warship, if I'm understanding correctly. They parachuted in sometime after the kidnapping. (I don't think kidnapping is the right word, but right now I'm so excited that he's safe I can't think straight).

[gramvof14]

Happy Easter Captain Phillips and your wife and family and friends.
Its about time the United States showed we will not put up with Pirates attacking our ships, this has been going on far to long.JMO gramv

[Orchid Corsage]

Happy Easter Captain Phillips and your wife and family and friends.
Its about time the United States showed we will not put up with Pirates attacking our ships, this has been going on far to long.JMO gramv

Amen!

Not OUR ships!

Today this was truly a blessed day in more than one way. I am so proud of the Navy and the Navy SEALS, and very thankful our President BHO stood up for one of ours! Truthfully, I was getting concerned. In a press conference, he had been asked a question about the Captain, and didn't seem to have much to say, and went on talking about something else. That worried me! KUDOS, he came through!

[awakening2lite]

Obama says US seeks to halt piracy on high seas

EXCERPT ~ AP

In a sharp warning to increasingly brazen pirates operating off the coast of lawless Somalia, Obama said: "I want to be very clear that we are resolved to halt the rise of piracy in that region and to achieve that goal, we're going to have to continue to work with our partners to prevent future attacks."


"We have to continue to be prepared to confront them when they arise, and we have to ensure that those who commit acts of piracy are held accountable for their crimes," the president said.


http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090413/ap_on_go_pr_wh/obama_piracy

[packy]

They plan revenge for killing the pirates. Saying America will be mourning.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/worldnews/article-1169485/Now-Somali-insurgents-mortars-U-S-congressman-vow-revenge-high-seas-hostage-drama.html

[awakening2lite]

Pirates Attack Three Ships Off Africa, Capture Two (Update2)
[/URL]
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By Alaric Nightingale and Hamsa Omar


April 14 (Bloomberg) -- Pirates attacked three ships off the Horn of Africa, hijacking two of them and highlighting the challenge facing U.S. President Barack Obama as he vows to curb an escalating threat in waters four times the size of Texas.
The Greek-owned commodity carrier Irene E.M. was taken early today, Andrew Mwangura (http://search.bloomberg.com/search?q=Andrew+Mwangura&site=wnews&client=wnews&proxystylesheet=wnews&output=xml_no_dtd&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&filter=p&getfields=wnnis&sort=date:D:S:d1), a Nairobi, Kenya-based official at the Seafarers’ Assistance Program charity, said by phone today. Within hours, a smaller Togolese-flagged cargo ship called the Sea Horse was snatched, according to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.
“Where these pirates see an opportunity, they are going to take it,” Simon Fordham, a London-based partner at BGN Risk, a security consulting unit of Begbies Traynor Plc (http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/quote?ticker=BEG%3ALN), said by phone today. “We need more close escorts so it’s much more difficult for the pirates to get near ships in the first place.”
Sailing through the Gulf of Aden (http://www.eia.doe.gov/cabs/World_Oil_Transit_Chokepoints/Full.html) allows merchant ships to navigate Egypt’s Suez Canal rather than having to sail around Africa, cutting about 4,733 miles off a voyage from Saudi Arabia to Rotterdam, Europe’s largest port, according to calculations on the world-register.net (http://e-ships.net/dist.htm) Web site. Container vessels bringing Asian-made goods to Europe and commodity carriers hauling materials between the two continents also use the link.
A third cargo ship, the Safmarine Asia, was attacked by pirates off the Horn of Africa, Sky News reported on its Web site, citing NATO staff officer Stephan Gresmak.
Attacking Ships
Attacks on such ships have surged in the past month, with pirates striking off the east coast of Somalia to avoid naval patrols in the Gulf of Aden. Last week’s assault on the Maersk Alabama, the first American-operated ship to be seized by pirates off Somalia, highlighted the issue in the U.S. and prompted calls for Obama to coordinate international action.
“We are resolved to halt the rise of piracy in that region,” the president said yesterday, a day after U.S. snipers killed three Somali pirates and rescued American ship captain Richard Phillips (http://search.bloomberg.com/search?q=Richard+Phillips&site=wnews&client=wnews&proxystylesheet=wnews&output=xml_no_dtd&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&filter=p&getfields=wnnis&sort=date:D:S:d1). “We have to ensure that those who commit acts of piracy are held accountable for their crimes.”
Pirates threatened to target merchant ships from the U.S. and France after the rescue and the previous storming of a hijacked yacht by French commandoes. Two Egyptian fishing vessels have also been taken since Phillips was freed, the Associated Press reported.
“There are so many attacks coming in,” Noel Choong (http://search.bloomberg.com/search?q=Noel+Choong&site=wnews&client=wnews&proxystylesheet=wnews&output=xml_no_dtd&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&filter=p&getfields=wnnis&sort=date:D:S:d1), head of the International Maritime Bureau’s reporting center in Kuala Lumpur, said by phone today. “Even with patrols, pirates are finding loopholes. It’s a vast area.”
Saudi Supertanker
Attacks last year, culminating in the capture of Saudi Arabian supertanker Sirius Star, caused A.P. Moeller-Maersk A/S, Odfjell SE and other lines to divert some carriers around Africa rather than risk their vessels being seized.
The disruption adds to the woes of shipping companies, suffering from a collapse in rental rates for their vessels because of the global economic slump.
Even if the latest attacks force vessels to take the longer route around Africa, declines in rates for transporting commodities or containers are unlikely to be reversed, said Sverre Bjorn Svenning (http://search.bloomberg.com/search?q=Sverre+Bjorn+Svenning&site=wnews&client=wnews&proxystylesheet=wnews&output=xml_no_dtd&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&filter=p&getfields=wnnis&sort=date:D:S:d1), an Oslo-based shipping analyst at Fearnley Consultants AS.
“We’ve got way too much transportation capacity,” Svenning said by phone. “Demand is too weak.”
Irene M was sailing to India from Jordan, according to Greece’s Merchant Marine Ministry.
To contact the reporter on this story: Alaric Nightingale (http://search.bloomberg.com/search?q=Alaric+Nightingale&site=wnews&client=wnews&proxystylesheet=wnews&output=xml_no_dtd&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&filter=p&getfields=wnnis&sort=date:D:S:d1) in London at Anightingal1@bloomberg.net
Last Updated: April 14, 2009 09:56 EDT

[url]http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601102&sid=ay.jvyxWOODQ&refer=uk

[awakening2lite]

Somali pirates release Belgian ship's crew

6.28.09

BRUSSELS – Somali pirates have released the entire crew of a Belgian ship seized 10 weeks ago after a ransom was paid, the Belgian government said Sunday.


The 10-member crew of the Pompei dredger was in good health and sailing the ship to an unidentified harbor where it will arrive in a few days, the government said. The crew members will then fly home to their families.
Defense Minister Pieter De Crem told a news conference that the ship's owners paid a ransom to release the ship and crew. He declined to say how much, but said pirates had demanded $8 million.

A plane dropped the money into the sea near the Belgian vessel Saturday, De Crem said. About 10 pirates on board abandoned the ship early Sunday.
The ship, its Dutch captain and crew of two Belgians, three Filipinos and four Croatians were seized April 18 a few hundred miles north of the Seychelles islands as they were sailing from Dubai to South Africa.


The pirates took the ship to the Somali coast where they and the crew stayed on board.


Belgian officials said the ship's owners negotiated the release with a middleman who sometimes passed on messages from the captain.
The pirates even contacted the crew's family members once to prove that they were still alive.


De Crem said the government had considered military intervention to seize the ship, but decided that it was "not desirable" because it could endanger the crew.


Despite international navy patrols, piracy has exploded in the Gulf of Aden and around Somalia's 1,900-mile (3,060-kilometer) coastline. Pirates are able to operate freely because Somalia has had no effective central government in nearly 20 years.


Seasonal monsoons have hampered pirate activity recently and the relative lull is expected to continue until at least the end of August, when the rough weather subsides, according to the London-based International Maritime Bureau.


Belgian prosecutors said an attack on a Belgian ship in international waters was a crime that they would investigate. Belgian police will interview the crew and check the ship for forensic and DNA evidence when it reaches harbor, they said.


"We think there is a chance" that some of the pirates might be caught and brought to justice, federal prosecutor Johan Delmulle told reporters. They could face up to 30 years in jail.


http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090628/ap_on_re_af/piracy

[awakening2lite]

Live Piracy Report

Incident Details: View

27.06.2009: 0040 LT: Posn: 02:47.1N - 105:07.6E, Off Pulau Mangkai, South China Sea.

Six pirates armed with knives, crowbars and batons boarded an LPG tanker underway. Master, 2/O and duty A/B negotiated with the pirates not to harm anyone and gave everything as demanded by them. The pirates tied them up, stole their personal belongings and cash and escaped in a canoe craft. Alarm raised, SSAS activated and crew mustered. No injuries to crew.
http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_fabrik&c=form&view=details&Itemid=82&fabrik=48&rowid=239&tableid=70&fabrik_cursor=0&fabrik_total=0

[awakening2lite]

EU, Kenya Somali-Pirate Treaty ’Violates Rights’, Lawyers Say
[/URL]
(javascript:togShareLinks('shr_v');)


By Sarah McGregor


Aug. 19 (Bloomberg) -- A treaty allowing the European Union to transfer suspected Somali pirates to Kenya (http://www.un.org/Depts/Cartographic/map/profile/kenya.pdf) for trial is violating human rights, a French legal aid network said.


Paris-based Lawyers of the World has written to the United Nations, the EU’s anti-piracy force and Kenya’s Foreign Ministry to demand they form a joint committee to monitor performance of the five-month-old agreement and ensure piracy suspects are cared for in custody and get a credible trial.


“Without such implementation, the trials will be without legitimacy and a gross violation of the rights of the accused,” according to a copy of the letter dated Aug. 11 and e-mailed to Bloomberg News today.


Kenya, which borders Somalia, became a venue for piracy trials after signing prisoner transfer accords this year with the U.S., the U.K. and the EU in exchange for legal and logistical support. Denmark said on Aug. 18 it had also signed a piracy extradition agreement with Kenya.


Somalia is unable to host the trials because its legal system is in tatters following 18 years of civil war.


At sea, suspects have been captured with no ability to access legal advice and in the absence of an interpreter so they are unable to communicate in their Somali language or understand the evidence, Lawyers of the World said.


Onshore, the detainees are denied adequate medical treatment and lack basic amenities such as soap. In most cases, they have not been able to contact their families.


There are also questions over whether Kenya has jurisdiction to try hijackings on the high seas, it added.


On a mission to Kenya earlier this month, Lawyers of the World received permission to represent about 43 detained Somali men captured by European navies off eastern Africa and handed over to Kenya for prosecution.


Kenyan law carries a maximum life sentence for those convicted of piracy.
To contact the reporter on this story: Sarah McGregor (http://search.bloomberg.com/search?q=Sarah+McGregor&site=wnews&client=wnews&proxystylesheet=wnews&output=xml_no_dtd&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&filter=p&getfields=wnnis&sort=date:D:S:d1) in Nairobi at Smcgregor5@bloomberg.net
Last Updated: August 19, 2009 10:57 EDT

[url]http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601116&sid=aDs_bA4DXiTg

[packy]

http://www.nydailynews.com/news/world/2009/09/05/2009-09-05_drones_set_to_fight_pirates.html

"The U.S. military is set to unsheath a new weapon against pirates - unmanned drones outfitted with cameras and sensors.

The drones are capable of carrying missiles and bombs, but they're not going to be armed. Officials said the objective in countering piracy is to board ships and capture the pirates, instead of blowing them up. "

(More at link)

[packy]

http://assets.nydailynews.com/img/2009/09/05/alg_reaper_drone.jpg

http://www.nydailynews.com/news/world/2009/09/05/2009-09-05_drones_set_to_fight_pirates.html

[awakening2lite]

[Note: dates are posted as the custom in Europe; ie day before month. Example: November 5 is posted as 05.11.2009]




Live Piracy Report

The IMB Live Piracy Report displays all Piracy and Armed Robbery incidents reported to the IMB Piracy Reporting Centre in the last ten days. Click on the map for more details.

Incident Details: View

05.11.2009: 0320 LT: Posn: 06:00.6S - 105:56.4E, Ciwandan anchorage, Indonesia.

Four robbers in a small boat boarded a bulk carrier at anchor from the stern. The robbers tied up one duty AB and took the other one at knife point to the engine room. The robbers stole engine spares and escape. No injuries to crew.
View (http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_fabrik&c=form&view=details&Itemid=82&fabrik=48&rowid=350&tableid=70&fabrik_cursor=0&fabrik_total=0) 05.11.2009: 0426 UTC: Posn: 09:40.36S – 045:05.48E, 690 nm south of Mogadishu, Somalia.

Pirates have attacked and hijacked a bulk carrier underway. Further information awaited.
View (http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_fabrik&c=form&view=details&Itemid=82&fabrik=48&rowid=349&tableid=70&fabrik_cursor=1&fabrik_total=0) 02.11.2009: 0810 UTC: Posn: 03:34.3S – 045:40.1E, Around 330 nm south of Mogadishu, Somalia.

Two skiffs with six armed pirates in each boat chased and fired upon a bulk carrier underway. Pirates were unable to hook their ladder onto the ship’s side. Master increased speed and carried out evasive manoeuvres. Fire hoses activated. After 20 minutes the pirates gave up. Ship sustained bullet holes but no casualties.
View (http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_fabrik&c=form&view=details&Itemid=82&fabrik=48&rowid=347&tableid=70&fabrik_cursor=2&fabrik_total=0) 02.11.2009: 1213 UTC: Posn: 07:55S – 047:40E, Around 600 nm SSE of Mogadishu, Somalia.

One skiff with five pirates chased and fired upon a chemical tanker underway while two more skiffs were stood by in the vicinity. Ship increased speed and enforced evasive manoeuvres and moved away. Ship sustained bullet holes.
View (http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_fabrik&c=form&view=details&Itemid=82&fabrik=48&rowid=348&tableid=70&fabrik_cursor=3&fabrik_total=0) 31.10.2009: 1530 UTC: Posn: 13:26N – 049:42E: Gulf of Aden.

Two skiffs chased and fire upon bulk carrier underway. The pirates attempted to board the vessel but due to effective anti piracy measures, the pirates aborted the attempt and moved away.

View (http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_fabrik&c=form&view=details&Itemid=82&fabrik=48&rowid=346&tableid=70&fabrik_cursor=4&fabrik_total=0) 30.10.2009: 2125 UTC: Posn: 06:08.16N – 003:27.68E, Lagos anchorage, Nigeria.

Nine heavily armed pirates in a speedboat boarded a bulk carrier and opened fire at her. They took hostage all crewmembers, assaulted some of the crew and damaged the ship’s communication equipments. Under guns threat, they stole ship’s cash, crew cash and ship’s property and crew personal belongings and escaped. Five crew injured. Nigerian navy informed.

View (http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_fabrik&c=form&view=details&Itemid=82&fabrik=48&rowid=343&tableid=70&fabrik_cursor=5&fabrik_total=0) 30.10.2009:2015 LT: Posn: 06:10N – 003:33E, Lagos anchorage, Nigeria.

Six pirates armed with guns and knives in a speedboat boarded a chemical tanker drifting. Master raised alarm, activated SSAS, contacted Lagos port control and crew activated fire hoses. Pirates started firing at the bridge windows and accommodation doors. They were unable to get entry into the accommodation. The pirates managed to enter into the bridge and took hostage all crewmembers. They threatened the crew with guns, assaulted some of the crewmembers and damaged the communication equipments. Under guns threat, they stole ship’s cash, crew cash and personal belongings. Pirates locked all the crew in a cabin and escaped.
View (http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_fabrik&c=form&view=details&Itemid=82&fabrik=48&rowid=344&tableid=70&fabrik_cursor=6&fabrik_total=0) 29.10.2009: 0247 UTC: Posn: 01:55S - 055:53E, Off Somalia.

Armed pirates in two skiffs approached a fishing vessel underway from both sides. The vessel took evasive manoeuvres and sent a distress message which was received by the IMB Piracy Reporting Centre and relayed to the coalition naval forces to render assistance. A warship was dispatched to the location. The pirates managed to board and hijack the vessel.
View (http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_fabrik&c=form&view=details&Itemid=82&fabrik=48&rowid=339&tableid=70&fabrik_cursor=7&fabrik_total=0)
http://www.icc-ccs.org/index.php?option=com_fabrik&view=table&tableid=70&calculations=0&Itemid=82

[Audie]

FNC reporting now of a new hijacking by pirates. JMO but why can't we go on the offensive and blow them out of the water, before they can take anymore ships and hostages.

eta: per FNC pirates have 12 ships in their possession and more than 200 hostages.