Benin: Pirates attack tanker in Gulf of Guinea January 1

Event

A tanker ship was attacked by pirates off the coast of Benin in the Gulf of Guinea on Tuesday, January 1. A group of ten pirates reportedly looted the ship before fleeing with six Russian crewmembers, including the captain. As of Thursday, January 10, 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. In 2017, five attacks took place off the Guinean coasts and over 20 off the Nigerian coasts, both located in the Gulf of Guinea.

Advice

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