Ghana: Release of five crew members kidnapped in Gulf of Guinea occurs June 30 /update 1

Event

According to recently released reports, suspected pirates released five kidnapped foreign nationals crewmembers June 30. The victims, one Korean, one Russian, and three Chinese nationals, were released unharmed. The exact location of their release is unclear. Though unconfirmed, unverified reports indicate a ransom was paid to secure their release. The pirates boarded the fishing vessel, Atlantic Princess, and kidnapped the victims approximately 65 NM (120 km/75 miles) south of Tema, late May 19.

Further incidents of piracy are likely in the Gulf of Guinea in the coming months.

Context

The Gulf of Guinea's coastal waters constitute a central shipping lane and experience a high piracy threat. Pirates regularly target commercial ships, bulk carriers, cargo ships, and their crews. Pirates have traditionally operated out of Nigeria's Niger Delta Region; however, piracy in the Gulf of Guinea continues to spread, with several new hotspots emerging in recent months, including as far south as the Exclusive Economic Zone of Gabon. Although the waters off Nigeria will likely remain the most prone to piracy and maritime kidnapping incidents in the foreseeable future, incidents in areas previously considered at low risk may face an elevated threat.

Advice

Exercise a high degree of caution if operating in the Gulf of Guinea. Ship operators should implement best management practices to mitigate piracy-associated threats. Companies should regularly review their ship security assessment and plan under the International Ship and Facility Security Code (ISPS), particularly in piracy-prone areas. Companies are advised to maintain strict anti-piracy watches and report all pirate activity, including both actual and attempted attacks, as well as suspicious sightings, to local naval authorities.