Basque tuna fishing purse seiner ‘Alakrana’ –owned by Echebastar Fleet- suffered a hijack attempt from a Somali pirate skiff on Tuesday morning as it fished in the Indian ocean, Spanish news agency EFE reported.
According to the same sources, the attack began early on Tuesday morning in international waters. Security protocol for this type of situation was then immediately put into action, which involves turning around 180º, spinning the engine to full speed and sailing against the force of the waves. The crew took shelter in the interior of the vessel while onboard private security remained on deck.
The ‘Alakrana’ hires private security on board since it was seized by pirates in the Indian Ocean on Oct. 2 2009 with 36 crew members aboard, and was held for 47 days. According to Somali pirates, they released the Basque tuna fishing boat after agreeing a ransom of $3.5 million. Sources from the Spanish government denied having paid for the ransom.
At this time of the year when inter-monsoon winds hit the area, pirates’ activity increases.
The Alakrana was seized by pirates in the Indian Ocean on Oct. 2 2009 with 36 crew aboard, and held hostage for 47 days
