Benin: Pirates attack cargo ship at Cotonou Port November 2

Event

A cargo ship was attacked by pirates at 16 km (9 mi) from the Port of Cotonou, on Saturday, November 2, at approximately 03:30 (local time). A group of pirates boarded the ship before fleeing with nine Filipino crewmembers, including the captain. As of Monday, November 4, no known communication has been established with the pirates, and their location, as well as the location and condition of the hostages, is currently unknown. A search is underway.

Context

There is a high risk of piracy in the Gulf of Guinea. According to a report released in July by the International Maritime Bureau (IMB), 92 percent of hostage-takings too place in the Gulf of Guinea between January and June 2019.

Advice

Maritime travel through the Gulf of Guinea is advised against due to the threat of piracy.