Tanker Boarded & Robbed by Pirates Off Cape Verde

A Turkey-flagged product tanker was boarded and robbed southwest of Nova Sintra, Cape Verde early on Friday morning, marking a significant escalation in pirate activity off West Africa.

According to British maritime security consultants Ambrey, the tanker was boarded by 10 suspects armed with AK-47s. The suspects reportedly damaged communication equipment, took control of the bridge, and locked all crew members in.

A report from the International Chamber of Commerce stated that the pirates ordered the engines to be switched off and for the vessel to drift, intending to steal the cargo and bunkers. The crew’s arms and legs were tied. 

While waiting for the off-take vessel, the pirates stole crew and ship properties. They then moved all the crew into the steering gear room and informed them that explosive devices were fixed on all doors and that they could only exit after two hours.

According to Ambrey, the suspects looted the tanker’s cash and some assets before deboarding and departing.

The crew managed to break free after two hours and repaired some of the damaged equipment. No explosives were found, and no injuries were reported. The tanker then continued on its journey.