Update: Greek shipping company Latsco Marine Management confirmed that naval forces arrived on scene on Friday, November 7, afternoon and are providing assistance to the Hellas Aphrodite (IMO: 9722766). Armed forces deployed from EUNAVFOR naval assets with the assistance of their helicopter, boarded the vessel and confirmed the safety of all 24 crew members. On the early afternoon of November 7, Operation ATALANTA forces liberated the Maltese-flagged tanker Hellas Aphrodite. As it is reported, the crew, composed of 24 people, is safe and there were no injuries. Throughout the incident, they remained in the citadel in direct contact with ATALANTA.

“Initial reports indicate that no unauthorised persons were found on board when naval forces arrived. A detailed search of the vessel and surrounding area is continuing to ensure the situation is fully secure. As the situation stabilises, our immediate focus is on supporting our crew’s wellbeing and ensuring they receive the care and assistance they need as they recover from this distressing experience,” Latsco Marine Management said in a statement on Friday, Nov. 7.

According to EU Naval Force Operation ATALANTA, the flagship ESPS Victoria with her organic helicopter, the uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV), the maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft, and the special operations team were involved in the liberation of the tanker.

The piracy attack took place on the morning of November 6, Operation ATALANTA said, when the tanker was boarded by a Pirate Action Group (PAG) active in the area. The boarding took place approximately 700 nautical miles from Mogadishu. When Operation ATALANTA got the alert, surface and air assets were immediate tasked with taking the appropriate actions to respond effectively and lead the efforts.

Greek shipping company Latsco Marine Management confirmed on Thursday a “security incident” on board its managed vessel, Hellas Aphrodite (IMO: 9722766).

The Malta-flagged 49,992-dwt product tanker, built in 2016, was transiting from Sikka, India, to Durban, South Africa (approximately 550 nautical miles off coast of Somalia) when the incident occurred.

The tanker, which was carrying a cargo of gasoline, was en route from India to South Africa when a “security incident” took place southeast of Somalia at approximately 11:48 hours local time on November 6, the firm said.

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) received a report on November 6 of an illegal boarding 560 nautical miles southeast of Eyl, Somalia.

According to UKMTO, the master of a vessel reported being approached by one small craft on its stern. The small craft fired small arms and RPG’s towards the vessel.

As stated, unauthorised personnel of the small craft boarded the vessel in position of 0205N 05710E.

UKMTO issued an alert on Thursday advising vessels to transit in the area with caution. Authorities are currently investigating the incident.