EU Naval Force Operation Commander Reinforces Need for Vigilance at Sea as Chemical Tanker Attacked by Suspected Somali Pirates
During the
This is the first reported attack on a merchant vessel off the coast of Somalia in two and a half years. It comes after 26 hostages from
Pirate attacks in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean surged in 2008 and by January 2011 over 700 hostages and 30 vessels were being held by Somali pirates. Due to 24/7 counter-piracy naval patrols, together with self-protection measures implemented by the shipping industry, piracy attacks have been suppressed in recent years.
Speaking about the attack on CPO Korea, Major General Magowan stated "This attack shows that pirates still have the intent to attack ships for ransom and cause misery to seafarers and their families. It is imperative that the international community remains vigilant. The EU Naval Force is working with counter-piracy partners to coordinate efforts to ensure pirates do not once again
The vessel owner also commented: "We, Offen Tankers would like to express our appreciation and thanks to the crew and security team for safeguarding the crew,
EU Naval Force Operation Commander Reinforces Need for Vigilance at Sea as Chemical Tanker Attacked by Suspected Somali Pirates
The Operation Commander of the EU Naval Force (Somalia), Major General Rob Magowan CBE, has reiterated the need for continued vigilance at sea after a chemical tanker, CPO Korea, was reported as being attacked by six armed men 330 nautical miles off