EU Naval Force Belgian Frigate 'BNS Louise-Marie' apprehends five suspected pirates off Somali coast.
Directed to the scene by ship's helicopter, BNS Louise-Marie issued verbal warnings to the skiff whose crew quickly raised their hands. The boarding party was deployed to apprehend the five suspected pirates on board the skiff, which was equipped with a ladder and a boarding hook, and it eventually taken on board the frigate.
The five suspected pirates are being held on board the ship for further investigation and taking of evidence in order to fully assess the possibility of prosecution. They are also being treated for symptoms of dehydration and malnourishment. One of the men was also given medical treatment for a wrist wound.
This is BNS Louise-Marie’s third deployment in support of European Naval Force Somalia – Operation Atalanta. During her time with the EU Naval Force the ship will deter and disrupt piracy around the Horn of Africa. The captain stated that “This action clearly showed the continued necessity of Operation Atalanta Forces in the Horn of Africa as a deterrent for piracy, but also as a force for good.”