[Previous reporting period]
On May 29 at approximately 21:10 UTC, nine pirates boarded a General Cargo Ship underway approximately 33NM Southwest of Malabo, Equatorial Guinea. The pirates stole Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) equipment, ship provisions, and personal effects of the crew.
The vessel's Master and Chief Engineer were kidnapped. The remaining crew reportedly managed to sail the vessel to a safe port, and authorities are currently investigating the incident.
Analysis: In roughly the same area on January 1, 2024, approximately 46NM Southwest of Malabo, a similar attack occurred aboard the Tuvalu-flagged Tanker HANA I (IMO: 9340398) while the vessel was in transit from Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire to Douala, Cameroon.
Six armed perpetrators opened fire to gain access to the HANA I's Bridge, and nine crew members including the Master, Chief Engineer, and all Deck Officers were kidnapped from the vessel. The remaining crew were able to continue the voyage and arrived Douala early morning on January 2.
All vessels in the area are advised to exercise extreme caution, remain vigilant, retain an enhanced local surveillance, maintain strict Anti-Piracy Watch, and apply BMP WA procedures. Report any suspicious activity to authorities.
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