EU Naval Forces Capture 6 Pirates after Failed Piracy Attack In The Gulf of Aden

European Union naval forces arrested six suspected pirates after they allegedly opened fire on the oil tanker Chrystal Arctic, registered by the Marshall Islands, in the Gulf of Aden. The incident..raises concerns about the return of piracy attacks, particularly those from Somalia.

According to UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), the pirates, numbering between 5-6, approached the tanker in a small craft armed with firearms and ladders. As the pirates started fire, the vessel’s security staff responded with defensive measures.

An exchange of fire forced the pirates to abandon their hijack attempt. Despite suffering injuries of various types, the tanker’s crew remained unharmed.

However, the exact nature of the pirates’ injuries is unknown, with some accounts implying they may be related to the shootout. The actual cause has yet to be verified.

Following the failed attack, a European naval frigate operating in the area, Italy’s Carlo Bergamini-class frigate ITS Federico Martinengo, captured the suspected pirates.

The detained individuals are now being investigated.

This incident highlights growing concerns about piracy activity in the region, particularly off Somalia’s coast.

These assaults have interrupted commercial navigation along important maritime routes, complicating safety at sea in the region.

As investigations into the recent piracy incident continue, officials remain attentive to the increasing risks of piracy and other maritime security issues in the Gulf of Aden and its surrounding areas.