Region | Somalia
Somali pirates hijack empty Saudi tanker
The 5,136 ton ship was not registered with maritime authorities and was outside the designated route
- AP
- Published: 14:53 March 3, 2010
- Image Credit: Gulf News
Nairobi: The European Union Naval Force says Somali pirates have hijacked a Saudi tanker with 14 crew onboard.
Cmdr. John Harbour said Wednesday that the Al Nisr Al Saudi usually carried fuel oil but was empty when it was taken on Monday.
The captain of the ship is Greek and the nationality of the rest of the crew was not known, but they are believed to be safe.
The 5,136 ton ship was not registered with maritime authorities and was outside the designated route that naval warships patrol. Harbour says it has been taken to Garacad, a well-known pirate stronghold.
Pirate attacks typically spike during March, April and May. The calmer seas make it easier for pirates to board ships.
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