A Cayman-flagged chemical tanker, the MV Stolt Sagaland, came under attack from pirates on 3 Nov., approximately 330 nautical miles east of Mogadishu, Somalia, several maritime news organisations have reported.
A maritime industry bulletin by GCaptain said the MV Stolt Sagaland reported an attempted boarding by four unauthorised individuals from a small craft launched from a hijacked dhow mother ship.
“Persons on board the small craft shot several rounds from AK47 type weapon towards” the Cayman-flagged tanker, the bulletin said, adding that security forces on board shot back, and the small craft abandoned the attempt of boarding.
Seatrade Maritime News also reported on the incident, saying a skiff had approached the 600-foot-long vessel from the starboard side and opened fire. The on-board armed security team “responded effectively”, deterring the attack and preventing damage or injury, while the crew played their part by raising the alarm, increasing speed and conducting evasive manoeuvres.
The tanker’s operator, Stolt‑Nielsen, confirmed to Bermuda’s Royal Gazette newspaper that all crew on board are safe and the incident is being treated as piracy.
“Our crew are all safe, having responded swiftly and professionally to the incident,” Stolt‑Nielsen said in a statement.
While piracy off Somalia has faded from headlines, analysts say a resurgence is occurring and merchant shipping, including Cayman-flagged vessels, must remain on full alert.
The Bermudian-registered Stolt-Nielsen Ltd. was founded in 1959 and is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange. It is known for its bulk-liquid transportation, storage and distribution services, as well as land-based fish farming.
Its operations include Stolt Tankers, Stolthaven Terminals, Stolt Tank Containers and a Stolt Sea Farm.
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