Somali pirates attacked and boarded a Malta-registered vessel carrying gasoline approximately 560 nautical miles southeast of Eyl, Somalia, firing rocket-propelled grenades and small arms at the ship, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) and private security firm Ambrey.The incident occurred around 11:48 local time (08:48 GMT) on December 26th.
Greek shipping company Latsco Marine Management confirmed the attack on the Hellas Aphrodite, built in 2016, which was en route from Sikka, India, to durban, South Africa. Latsco stated all 24 crew members are “safe and accounted for” and remain in contact with the company. An official from maritime security company Diaplous told Reuters the crew has taken shelter in the ship’s fortified safe room.
Latsco has activated its emergency response team and is coordinating with authorities. European Union naval forces in the area have been requested to provide assistance.
The attack signals a resurgence of piracy in the region, which had significantly declined after peaking over a decade ago.The International Maritime Bureau reports at least seven incidents last year, with several fishing vessels seized by pirates already this year.
