ALAKRANA

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Latest news

Another attack on Alakrana defended

On Oct 19, 2011, the "Alakrana" was attacked by a pirate group when fishing in waters of the Indian Ocean but the private security on board managed to successfully repel the attack which began early in the morning in international waters. Security protocol for this type of situation was then immediately put into action, which involved turning around 180º, turning up 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 ship had been hijacked by Somali pirates two years ago and after 47 days in captivity was released. The "Alakrana", based in Bermeo (Biscay), has hired private security since October of 2009, when it was hijacked.

ALAKRANA 9335745

A Spanish court has sentenced two Somali pirates to 439 years in jail each for their role in the hijacking of the tuna fishing boat "Alakrana". The two men have been detained in a Madrid jail since they were caught after the attack in late 2009. The court said government-linked bodies had paid to have the vessel freed, but the government has insisted it does not pay ransoms. The vessel and 36 crew members were held off Somalia for 47 days. The Somalis were found guilty of 36 counts of illegal detention and robbery with violence, but absolved of charges of terrorism, membership in an organised crime group and torture. More at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-13272669