Synopsis
Recent reports reveal that Somali waters are still threatened by piracy, with two fishing vessels and a dhow hijacked. The IMB urges caution among ship operators and highlights the ongoing risks in the Gulf of Guinea.Key Takeaways
- Two fishing vessels and a dhow were hijacked off Somalia.
- 26 crew members were taken hostage during these incidents.
- IMB advises ships to adhere to best management practices.
- All captured crew and vessels have been released.
- Caution is urged in the Gulf of Guinea despite reduced incidents.
Mogadishu, April 15 (NationPress) Two fishing vessels and a dhow were hijacked off the coast of Somalia between February 7 and March 16, highlighting that piracy in this region continues to pose a significant threat, as stated in a recent report released Tuesday by a global anti-piracy organization.
The International Chamber of Commerce's International Maritime Bureau (IMB) first-quarter report indicates that 26 crew members were taken hostage during these incidents, showcasing the ongoing capability of Somali pirates.
"The IMB recommends that vessels navigating these waters maintain a high level of caution and adhere strictly to the latest version of the Industry Best Management Practice," the IMB noted.
As reported by Xinhua news agency, all crew members and vessels have since been released. The international naval forces operating in these waters continue to collaborate with merchant and fishing fleets to identify and capture pirate groups.
The IMB cautioned vessel owners and captains against being complacent. "Even though three piracy incidents have been documented, it is likely that numerous hijackings of dhows and fishing vessels have gone unreported," the IMB warned.
Furthermore, the IMB emphasized the need for ongoing vigilance in the Gulf of Guinea, where crew members remain vulnerable, despite the fact that reported incidents in the region and surrounding littoral states are at their lowest in almost two decades.
"All 13 kidnapped crew were reported in these waters from two separate attacks, with a total of six incidents logged in the first quarter of the year," the IMB stated.
"While we appreciate the decline in incidents, the safety of crew members in the Gulf of Guinea is still at considerable risk. It is crucial to sustain a robust regional and international naval presence to tackle these issues and ensure the safety of seafarers," IMB Director Michael Howlett commented.
