In response to the recent hijacking of a Chinese fishing vessel in its waters, Sierra Leone has announced its cooperation with neighboring countries to intensify efforts against piracy in the Gulf of Guinea.
This region, situated off the coast of West Africa, has become notorious for being one of the most perilous areas for ship attacks.
The incident involved the fishing vessel Shenghai-2, carrying twenty-three crew members, including six Chinese nationals. Fortunately, the crew was rescued a day after the hijacking on Sunday.
According to Sierra Leone’s Navy Chief, Commodore Philip Juana, the pirates attacked Shenghai-2 and another fishing vessel named Aliman with heavy weaponry. While Aliman managed to escape capture, the hijackers took control of Shenghai-2 and headed towards Liberia.
The subsequent day, the hijacked vessel was liberated, and Liberian forces managed to apprehend some of the pirates.
Sierra Leone intends to collaborate with Liberia to develop a comprehensive “operational strategy” against piracy in the region.
Notably, the Gulf of Guinea has witnessed several pirate attacks in recent months, prompting global concern. Last year, the United Nations Security Council unanimously passed a resolution condemning piracy, armed robbery, and hostage-taking in the area.
Liberia’s Ministry of National Defense confirmed that the rescue operation, which lasted over 24 hours, involved a coordinated effort with Cote d’Ivoire, another neighboring nation. During the operation, two pirates were arrested, and several weapons were recovered. However, some other pirates involved in the attack managed to evade arrest.
Both Sierra Leone and Liberia are currently conducting investigations into the hijacking incident. With regional collaboration and increased measures against piracy, authorities hope to curtail this menace and ensure safer waters in the Gulf of Guinea.
