U.S. Government Confirms that Al Qaeda Linked Group Attacked Tanker in July

 A group linked to al Qaeda has been determined to have been responsible for that tanker attack that took place near the Strait of Hormuz back in July, Reuters reports, based on a U.S. Maritme Administration advisory issued November 19. Earlier posts on this attack here, here, here, here and here and here.

The key portion of the MARAD advisory:

ADVISORY # 2010 -10

DATE ISSUED NOV 19 2010

TO: MARINERS

SUBJECT: VESSELS TRANSITING IN THE STRAIT OF HORMUZ, SOUTHERN ARABIAN GULF, AND WESTERN GULF OF OMAN.

1. THIS MARAD ADVISORY PROVIDES GUIDANCE TO VESSELS TRANSITING SUBJECT WATERS.
2. GOVERNMENT AND INDUSTRY SOURCES CAN CONFIRM THAT THE CLAIM BY THE Abdullah Azzam Brigades (AAB) THAT THE GROUP HAD ATTACKED THE TANKER M.STAR IS VALID. THE GROUP REMAINS ACTIVE AND CAN CONDUCT FURTHER ATTACKS ON VESSELS IN AREAS IN THE STRAIT OF HORMUZ, SOUTHERN ARABIAN GULF, AND WESTERN GULF OF OMAN.
3. RECOMMEND ALL SHIPS TRANSITING THE SUBJECT WATERS EXERCISE INCREASED VIGILANCE AND CAUTION, PARTICULARY DURING NIGHT TRANSITS WITH INCREASED MONITORING OF SMALL VESSEL/BOAT ACTIVITY.

More information on AAB at this site

China: Shipyard shake out and consolidation

Jiangnan Shipyard Shanghai

Reported as Chinese shipbuilders to run aground in 2011:

Fueled by vigorous government support and cheap labour, the number of shipyards has grown exponentially in the past decade in China, reflecting its role as the world's top exporter and one of the biggest buyers of foreign oil, iron ore and grains.

But many small shipyards face a bleak year in 2011 as growing numbers of clients cancel orders to avoid floating unchartered vessels, and Beijing tightens credit in its fight to rein in inflation.

'There are too many shipyards. For the next couple of years, a number of them won't be able to survive on their own,' Robert Lorenz-Meyer, president of BIMCO, the world's largest shipowners' grouping, told Reuters. 'There will be consolidation, but hopefully some yards will refocus on scrapping,' he added.

Somali Pirates: Kenya Set Up Anti-Pirate Security Zone

Reported here:

Maritime authorities have created a security corridor for ships entering the Port of Mombasa to counter piracy attacks on Kenya’s territorial waters.

Vessels will be required to wait at the four identified co-ordinates, which according to the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) is a corridor of 10 by 20 nautical miles from the Port of Mombasa.

“The area is a security zone within which patrols by the Kenyan Navy have been enhanced to provide security for vessels waiting berthing at the port,” KMA director Ms Nancy Karigithu said.

Fishing boats, skiffs and leisure boats will be required to keep off the corridor, which will help identify any pirate skiff that approaches the corridor.

While not an ideal solution, at least it suggests that Kenya is going proactive in its defenses against Somali pirates who are increasingly intruding into Kenyan waters.

West African Piracy: Death in the Gulf of Guinea

Arrow points to vicinity of attack

Five killed in Gulf of Guinea attack :

A maritime security alert has been issued after five people were killed in a speedboat attack near an oil rig in the Gulf of Guinea.

Suspected pirates attacked a craft belonging to Cameroonian security forces killing the pilot, a mechanic and three soldiers from the Rapid Intervention Battalion. Cameroon deployed the Rapid Intervention Battalion in April to ensure security in the Bakassi peninsula after a series of attacks.

Pirate activity is spreading outwards from the Niger Delta, with the Bakassi peninsula being an area of particular concern.

Attacks in the Gulf of Guinea are often more violent than other piracy hotspots around the world, including off the coast of Somalia so vessel operators are advised to exercise caution.

Planning for that Zombie Attack: Littoral and "Brown Water" Defenses

Shaun of the Dead zombies

It says something about our modern culture that tales of the dead rising to feast on the flesh of the living remain popular.

Though dating back (Wikipedia says) to African Voodoo cults (and, I suspect, but am too lazy to research, to almost all cultures at some point), for many of us of a certain age, Night of the Living Dead was our introduction to the modern "zombie" world. 
Since then, there are many variations on the theme that have followed, up to and including the "graphic novel" (formerly known as a "comic book") inspired The Walking Dead now a hit on AMC.

I kinda thought Shaun of the Dead was going to blow the top off these things, but .... then came "zombie yoga."

Now many of us have sacrificed hundreds, if not thousands, of electrons to discussing defenses against zombies (see here and here).


Well, naturally, from time to time it is necessary to revisit these defenses against the "Zombie Threat." Most of these take a land-based approach to dealing with the problem.

For example, Chuck Z has some thoughts at here:

Zombie Buster?*

Once the main pandemonium has passed, it's time to consider moving elsewhere. You're going to need a vehicle. Forget about popping by the local Ferrari dealership. Forget about building the apocalypse vehicle, surrounded by flame-throwers, flailing chains, and chainsaws. You do need a SOLID vehicle, one with large fuel tanks, and as few (and hopefully armored) windows as possible. You don't need an RV. You need a panel van, or something with a large enough enclosed space to sleep comfortably and haul supplies. Find a Cargo Van, Short School Bus (lots of windows, but higher up), UPS truck, or even better, an armored van.

I believe that this land-based approach is not as sound as a littoral or brown water zombie defense approach, which maximizes mobility, security and comfort.

Now, in the classic land-based zombie defense posture, as repeated by Chuck, you seek a remote house and board yourself into it, while awaiting the inevitable zombie horde pounding on the windows and doors while you expend your ammo, food and foul water. As Chuck says:

Zombie Combat Building Entry Technique

Speaking of getting away, you are going to need to get away from the city, and preferably away from the suburbs. Too many zombies. Of course, everyone else will be thinking about that, and highways will be ridiculously crowded with the living and the undead. Best to stay away until the situation stabilizes. So you'll need a local place to stay. The fewer windows, the better. Roof access is a plus. Get water catching buckets/tarps/etc up early. Board up the 1st floor windows from both sides, and bar the doors. Haul in the pets (they are your loving family members, as well as an emergency food source.) Blackout curtains (or foil) on all the windows for night time. Keep the family in one room for sleeping, and bar that door too.

Oh, my! This is totally wrong-headed.

How much better to head for the local lake, river or ocean marina and "adopt" a boat on which you load, food, water, ammo, weapons and . . . fishing gear. While the zombies gather on the shore groaning at you, you proceed to open water and drop anchor (Note: water should be at least 20 feet deep - so zombies can't "piggy back" their way on board). While you wait out the zombies, you fish, drink beer and have the comforts of home. Practice "repelling boarders." Should the zombies show or develop nautical skills, weigh anchor and move to another, less infested area.

I do have a few suggestions. First, get a real boat that you can live on for several weeks or months.  Like these:

The helicopter is a nice touch if you can fly it

Low freeboard might make it easy for zombie boardings but this boat has good observation points

Fuel is less of an issue with a sail boat

Wouldn't you prefer this to some rancid cabin in the woods?

Second, make sure that you bring a water purification system with you or that the boat you liberate for littoral use has a "reverse osmosis" system for converting sea water to fresh water. With water, fishing gear and some common sense, you ought to be good to go.

Third, while I am unclear on the amphibious capabilities of zombies, I suggest getting a good fish finder with "zombie location" capability  - just in case.

Underwater zombies detected by fish finder**

UPDATE: Then there are those anti-zombie riverine forces on patrol:

*Photo by Raphael Marchese, HHC 3rd/47th Infantry. vehicle id'd as being a creation of 9th Infantry.
 **Zombie art

Somali Pirates: Common Sense Needed

Once again, the NATO Shipping Center has posted a revised piracy warning here, containing the identity and locations of probable "mother ships" suspected of being used for Somali pirate operations:

Updated 16 November.

Weather conditions continue to be favourable for pirate operations throughout the Somali Basin and the Gulf of Oman. Activity over the past week has been focused in two main areas, one in the main north south shipping lanes at 65E between 11-16N, the other to the SW of Seychelles.

It is assessed that at least one pirated dhow is acting as a mother vessel in each area. In addition there is assessed to be at least one whaler-based PAG (whaler is 10-12 m open boat with internal engine – capable of 6-8 knots) operating to the north of the Seychelles IVO the equator.

Golden Wave

Pirates continue to make use of already pirated vessels for use as mother ships. The only pirated vessel currently underway and assessed as a threat to shipping is FV GOLDEN WAVE, (image insert) last located at 12.11.2010: 0355 UTC in position 04°01S - 041°12E: This vessel is believed to be heading further to the south. ALL VESSELS ARE ADVISED TO BE CAUTIOUS. Vigilant watches, early detection of vessels manoeuvring to close, early reporting and the adoption of the Best Management Practices are the keys for remaining safe.

Updated 16 Nov. 10

Zulfecar

The pirated vessel MV ZULFECAR remains underway and will probably be used as a mother ship for the launching of small skiffs (5m), this vessel has previously been used by pirates as a mother ship. It is likely that she will operate within an triangular area between the Kenyan / Tanzanian coast and north point of Madagascar. All small boats in the area should be perceived as suspicious.

All mariners transiting the area are warned that pirates operate the area, full BMP’s* are recommended in the Indian Ocean within 15°S and 78°E.

OK, why would it not be easy to send a warship or an armed remotely piloted aircraft to "shadow/escort" the suspected mother ships and break up their pirate activities?

You know, start the trail when a "suspect" vessel leaves a known Somali pirate port.

Am I missing something really complex here?

It's not like there aren't 25+ warships bobbing around out there.

Get a little proactive.





*BMP=Best Management Practices

I Want to Know the Rest of the Story: Nigeria reports seized Iranian arms shipment to UN

Things that make you go "Hmmm."

BBC News reports Nigeria reports seized Iranian arms shipment to UN:

Nigeria has reported its seizure of a shipment of arms from Iran to the United Nations Security Council.

The Nigerian authorities discovered the weapons, including rocket launchers and grenades, last month in containers labelled as building materials.
***

Iran said the weapons were the subject of a "misunderstanding", which had been cleared up.

***
Iran's Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki, who visited Nigeria last week, said: "A private company which had sold conventional defence weapons to another country in West Africa had transferred the shipment via Nigeria which raised some doubts with relevant officials."
***

The France-based shipping company CMA CGM which transported the shipment said it was hidden in containers labelled as building materials and attempts were made to send it to Gambia before the Nigerian police seized it.

Iran is under UN sanctions because of its nuclear programme and is banned Iran from supplying, selling or transferring arms. Tehran denies accusations that its programme is aimed at developing nuclear weapons.

Yeah, I always ship munitions hidden in containers labeled as "building supplies."

Reports that the stuff was possibly bound for Gaza here:

Nigeria's secret service said on Tuesday it had intercepted 13 containers of weapons from Iran in what Israeli defense sources believe may be part of a new smuggling route from Iran to Hamas in Gaza.

Rocket launchers, grenades and other explosives camouflaged as building material were seized in the Nigerian port of Lagos after being unloaded from an Iranian ship.

Nigerian media reports said the ship, which came from Iran, docked in Lagos' port for a few hours only, unloaded 13 containers and sailed on.

The bill of lading said the shipment consisted of building materials, Nigerian State Security Service spokeswoman Marilyn Ogar said.

"On opening the first container, the service operatives discovered rocket launchers, grenades and other explosives," Ogar said, adding the weapons were concealed among crates of floor tiles.

***
According to the Nigerian media, the clearing agent in charge of unloading the containers from the ship offered to bribe the Nigerian customs officers to transfer the containers to an off-dock terminal, where they could be screened outside the port. The customs officials alerted the security services, who ordered the containers opened.

Some interesting thoughts here, which notes that the munitions could just as easily be intended tor African Iranian clients:

There is every cause for concern therefore when arms and ammunitions such as the Apapa cargo find their way into our shores. That is why, every effort must be made to track the importers and identify them for the benefit of the concerned public and peace of the country. The government must resist pressure to enter into a conspiracy to internationalise this episode without first asking for and obtaining credible evidence before embarking on such a position.

There are claims made by Israeli officials that the arms came from the Jewish nation's arch foe Iran, and that they were destined for its implacable enemy Hamas in Gaza. So far, we have not seen evidence to corroborate the claims, and Nigerian officials have made no comment regarding them. Questions as to why such arms would take the tortuous route through Nigeria, if indeed Israel's claims are worth looking into, and why it took three months to bring the facts to the public's attention, should be answered by the ongoing investigation. If on the other hand it is true as being alleged that prominent Nigerians are behind the imports, the government has the bounden duty to expose them. It is only by doing so that it would have a deterrent effect, build a safer environment for the citizens and put a halt to the disturbing trend of easy access to heavy weaponry among dissident groups and militants in the country.

UPDATE:



The War with Iran continues.

Photo from AFP.

Hero

William McGurn: The Newest Medal of Honor:

On that ridge in Afghanistan, Salvatore Giunta could not save his sergeant. But he did deprive the enemy of its victory—and death of some of its sting. In that same "60 Minutes" segment, a fellow soldier (who earned a Silver Star in the same firefight) put it this way. "The last thing Brennan ever saw was us," says Sgt. Erick Gallardo. "You know, he saw us fighting for him. . . . We fought for him and he's home with his family now because of that." It's a soldier's gift. Because of Sgt. Giunta, the family of Josh Brennan know that when their loved one breathed his last, he did so knowing he was among friends willing to put their own lives at risk for him.

It was not why he was there, but it is the reason he is a hero.

From a review of Sebastian Junger's book War:

An eight-man squad caught in a Taliban ambush suffers 100 percent casualties. Their sergeant is mortally wounded. A team leader named Sal Giunta takes over and saves the unit from annihilation. The action appears chaotic but possesses an underlying choreography that requires each man to make "decisions based not on what's best for him, but on what's best for the group," Junger writes. "If everyone does that, most of the group survives. If no one does, most of the group dies. That, in essence, is combat."

He points out that while all animals defend their young and some their mates, only human beings are willing to die for a cause. And for these paratroopers, as for most warriors, their most cherished cause, maybe their only one, is each other. It is understood that each soldier will give his life for his comrades, if necessary.

It might not be like that in your work place. Sometimes it takes the worst to bring out our best.

Somali Pirates Free Yacht Couple After Over A Year in Captivity

It was a money deal and not a humanitarian gesture, as reported by the NYTimes here:

The British couple who had been kidnapped by Somali pirates and held in captivity in a remote, swelteringly hot patch of central Somalia for more than a year were finally released, Somali officials said Sunday.

The couple, Paul and Rachel Chandler, were hijacked at sea last October while sailing in a small yacht in the Indian Ocean in a trip they described to friends as “the trip of a lifetime.”

British media reports indicated that a ransom of several hundred thousand dollars had been paid, and low-resolution video footage posted on Sky News on Sunday showed the couple arriving at the heavily-guarded compound of a Somali-American official who was instrumental in getting the couple freed.

Somali Pirates Hijack Chinese Ship

The Associated Press: China: Pirates hijack ship with 29 in Arabian Sea:

Pirates hijacked a cargo ship with 29 Chinese sailors aboard in the Arabian Sea and told the shipping company they were taking it toward Somalia, Chinese officials and state media said Saturday.

The attack came just two days after another 17 Chinese sailors returned home after being held by Somali pirates for four months. It also highlights the spread of piracy to areas outside the Gulf of Aden, a hijacking hot spot now patrolled by international forces.

An official with the China Marine Rescue Center, surnamed Yang, said the Panama-flagged ship Yuan Xiang was attacked Friday night. The Ningbo Hongyuan Ship Management Company reported the pirate attack to the rescue center just before midnight and said the pirates were taking the ship toward Somalia, the state-run Xinhua News Agency reported.
***
Xinhua said the attack occurred in an area outside the region where China's navy is part of a multination force working together to patrol the Gulf of Aden — one of the world's busiest shipping lanes — and other waters off Somalia where pirates operate.

Photo from Shipspotting.com by CHN and used iaw that site's terms.

Somali Pirates Take Ship Off India

MSC(HOA) reports MV HANNIBAL II pirated in the Somali Basin:

Early this morning, the MV HANNIBAL II, a Panamanian-flagged vessel, was pirated whilst on route from Malaysia to Suez.

The 24,105 tonne chemical tanker was carrying vegetable oils from Pasir Gudang to Suez at the time. The master of the vessel reported that he had been attacked and boarded by pirates in an area some 860 nautical miles East of The Horn of Africa which is considerably closer to India than it is to Somalia.

The MV HANNIBAL II has a total of 31 crew on board. This number consists of 23 Tunisians, 4 Filipinos, 1 Croatian, 1 Georgian, 1 Russian and 1 Moroccan.

To All Who Have Served -

Thank You!

Laptops for Wounded Servicemen and Women

Over there on the right is one of those thermometers that scores donations made to Project VALOUR-IT which has a mission:

Project Valour-IT, in memory of SFC William V. Ziegenfuss, helps provide voice-controlled/adaptive laptop computers and other technology to support Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines recovering from hand wounds and other severe injuries. Technology supplied includes:

•  Voice-controlled Laptops - Operated by speaking into a microphone or using other adaptive technologies, they allow the wounded to maintain connections with the rest of the world during recovery.

• Wii Video Game Systems - Whole-body game systems increase motivation and speed recovery when used under the guidance of physical therapists in therapy sessions (donated only to medical facilities).

• Personal GPS - Handheld GPS devices build self-confidence and independence by compensating for short-term memory loss and organizational challenges related to severe TBI and severe PTSD.

 

 I know these are some tough times, but it's even tougher if you've wounded and are trying to find a way to enjoy that which you used to take for granted. Please make a donation to this cause.

If you choose to support the "Navy Team," great, but that's a friendly competition - the key thing is to support your troops who have been out there laying it all on the line in your name.

Thank you!



Sticky - new posts below

Somali Pirates: UN Report Says Somali Pirates Growing Menace

Entire report here:

The menace of piracy off the coast of Somalia was outpacing international efforts to stem it, B. Lynn Pascoe, Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs, told the Security Council today, emphasizing: "Warships alone will not solve the problem."

Briefing the Council on the situation in Somalia, Mr. Pascoe said: "We need to continue to fight this battle in the broadest manner, focusing simultaneously on deterrence, security and the rule of law, as well as providing economic alternatives for Somali youth. We must also make piracy and robbery off the coast of Somalia costly by addressing impunity and building the capacity of the Transitional Federal Government to expand its authority and deal with law and order."

Presenting the Secretary-General's report on the situation in Somalia (document S/2010/556), he described the numbers as "appalling", citing International Maritime Organization (IMO) reports that more than 438 seafarers and passengers as well as 20 ships were held by pirates as of 4 November, an increase of almost 100 kidnapping victims in less than a month. Pirates were also taking greater risks and seeking higher ransoms, he said, recalling that just a few days ago, pirates had "brazenly" attacked a European Union warship escorting supplies for the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM). The assault had been mounted from a large freighter, itself seized about a month ago, he said, pointing out that such actions continued to have serious effects on regional economies and those of the wider world.

He said the problems would be worse if not for the "very considerable" international anti-piracy efforts. Member States had put in place a strong naval presence with an unprecedented level of coordination among naval forces in the area. International naval coalitions off the Somali coast had disrupted more pirate operations and protected more vessels than ever before, amid increasing implementation of self-protection recommendations developed by the shipping industry and the IMO, he said. "But much more effort is required to tackle the root causes of piracy. Fighting piracy demands simultaneous action on three fronts: deterrence; security and the rule of law; and development."

Video is from IMB maps and assembled here.

Meanwhile - Piracy in the Eastern Indian Ocean and South China Sea Area

Some indication of the more traditional piracy (sea robbers taking things from ships and running away) from ReCAAP. NOTE, however, the first incident about 350 miles off India, where Somali pirates are pushing their envelope, again:

ReCAAP Piracy Summary 2010 through September

24 Oct 10:

Low-grade sea robbery will probably never go away. Somali piracy may be an aberration in the normal course of things, but it will endure until Somalia itself is stabilized.

Somali Pirates: Using big "mother ship" to attack Spanish warship escorting food vessel

SPS Infanta Cristina

(Hat tip to D.E. Reddick) As the headline in the telegraph.co.uk website reads: "Pirates open fire on Spanish warship escorting food aid":

Pirates on-board a Japanese cargo ship they had hijacked in October opened fire with small arms against the Spanish frigate as it accompanied an aid ship destined for Somalia's capital, Mogadishu.

The Infanta Christina fired back after speeding up into a protective position between the pirates and the aid ship. The pirates then fled the attack, early on Sunday morning.

MV Izumi hijacked 10 October

"As the attack was carried out by a pirated merchant vessel with hostages on-board, the Infanta Christina had to defend herself and her escort with only minimal force in order not to endanger the lives of the hostages," the EU force said in a statement.

The Spanish warship was alongside the MV Petra 1, contracted by the African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia to deliver food to Mogadishu.

Or, as the EU MSC(HOA) site reports:

During the night of November 6, the EU NAVFOR warship SPS INFANTA CRISTINA was attacked off the East coast of Somalia by a vessel identified as the MV IZUMI, a ship that had itself been pirated on 10 October.

MV Petra 1 during a previous escorted food delivery mission

The EU NAVFOR warship had been escorting the MV PETRA 1, which had been chartered by the African Union Military Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), at the time. This is the first ever attack on an EU warship conducting an AMISOM escort.

During the incident, the Spanish warship increased speed and maneouvred immediately in order to place herself between MV IZUMI and her escort. The attack was disrupted and the pirates fled the scene. Thanks to the quick reactions and efficiency of the Spanish crew, the attack was quickly foiled without injury or damage.

As the attack was carried out by a pirated merchant vessel with hostages onboard, the SPS INFANTA CRISTINA had to defend herself and her escort with only minimal force in order not to endanger the lives of the hostages. After the attack, the warship and her escort continued toward Mombasa, Kenya, without further incident.

Well, this is sort of the worst case situation that we've all been waiting for as the Somali pirates begin using captured merchant sailors as "human shields" as the pirates attack other vessels.

I think this is a dangerous turn of events, and I don't think it will end well.

UPDATE: Was this a terrorist-inspired attack on a warship? A Spanish newspaper reports it as a likely "mistaken identity" shoot out here caused by the dark and the "fog of piracy."

The pirates opened fire first against the Petra I. The Infanta Cristina (pictured) immediately accelerated and maneuvered to stand in front and protect the craft and then was also attacked by Kaslahnikov waving pirates, who, probably because it was the middle of the night, did not realise at first they were attaching a military ship of the European Anti-Piracy Operation. The Spanish soldiers responded first with warning shots, and then were forced to open fire with machine guns on the ship that was attacking them, according to sources with the Ministry of Defence.

The crew of the Infanta Cristina realised that the ship they were attacking was a hijacked merchant ship. Afraid that there were hostages on board, they ceased fire and broadcast to the pirates that they were firing on a European warship. The pirates then fled and the Infanta Cristina decided not to pursue them in order not to endanger the lives of the two dozen hostages aboard.

Report of MV Izumi hijacking here. And a reminder of the warning that the Izumi could be headed on a piracy mission here.

Historian H.W. Brands at the Pritzker Military Library

While I found the entire discussion interesting, if you want to hear a great summary of why American economic dominance in manufacturing is not what it once was, go to 66:20 at the video of historian H.W. Brands at the Pritzker Military Library on November 4, 2010 where he spoke on his new book, American Colossus.

For those of you who lack the patience, here's an excerpt:


No special virtue? An anomaly? What happens in a world of trading party equals?

I think we're beginning to find out.

Of course, it's Dr. Brand's view of history . . .

Somali "Pirates?" - Definition issue in new U.S. pirate trials

As set out in Federal courts in Norfolk wrestle over definition of piracy from The Virginia Pilot:

For the first time since the 19th century, piracy suspects will go on trial in a federal court in a case that legal experts see as precedent-setting.

Already there are conflicting rulings in the cases against two groups of Somali nationals charged with attacking Navy ships off the Horn of Africa earlier this year.

***

U.S. District Judge Mark S. Davis last month upheld piracy and related charges in a 14-count indictment against the five Somalis charged in the April 1 attack on the Nicholas, a Norfolk-based frigate.

Davis' conclusion was opposite the one reached by Judge Raymond A. Jackson, sitting two floors below Davis in the same courthouse, in August in a case involving the April 10 attack on the Ashland, based at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek.

Jackson determined that he must interpret the piracy statute as it was meant at the time it was enacted, which was 1819. He found, citing an 1820 Supreme Court case, that piracy is defined only as robbery at sea. Since there was no robbery of the Ashland, he threw out the piracy charge. The government appealed and the case was halted.

Dueling judicial opinions, disagreeing law professors and a bunch of thugs getting ready for trial.

What fun.

You can find the Judge Davis decision in U.S. v. Hasan here. UPDATE:My upload of a less commerical version: Hasan Piracy Op 178!

And the Judge Jackson decision in U.S. v. Said can be downloaded here.

Lots of good discussion over at Opinio Juris and at the links therein.

UPDATE: And an earlier post on the possible Said case appeal here.

Somali Pirates: Did China Rescue Hijacked Ship and Crew?

Unconfirmed report from AFP "China says ship, crew hijacked off Somalia in June rescued":

A Singapore-flagged cargo ship with 19 Chinese crew that was hijacked in June by pirates off the coast of Somalia has been rescued, the Chinese transport ministry said.

The MV Golden Blessing, a petroleum and chemical tanker, was travelling to India from Saudi Arabia when it was hijacked in late June, maritime authorities said at the time.

"The 19 Chinese crew and the ship Golden Blessing were rescued safely at 1:03 am Beijing time," the ministry said in a statement posted on its website on Saturday.

"The 19 Chinese crew are safe. At present, the Golden Blessing is heading to safe waters under Chinese naval escort."

The statement did not say how the ship had been rescued, or if anyone was arrested in the process. Calls to the transport ministry went unanswered.

Interesting. China may have flexed some muscles. Details when I get some.

UPDATE: Latest reports say this ship was ransomed - along with another - see here. And here.

And here re the Samho Dream.

So, the basic answer is "No, the ships freedom was purchased."

Somali Pirates: Thai trawler sunk by gunfire

Report from the Bangkok Post : Thai trawler sunk by Somali pirates:

A Thai navy patrol ship taking part in an anti-piracy mission off the Somalia coast on Thursday rescued 23 crewmen from a Thai trawler which was robbed by pirates and then sunk by gunfire, the secretariat of the navy said Friday.

The source said the operation centre of the Thai anti-piracy naval force received a report on Nov 2 about 5pm (local time) that Sirichai Nava 11, a Yemen-registered Thai fishing vessel, had been attacked and seized by Somali pirates about 15 nautical miles from the coast of Yemen.

This was 360 nautical miles from where the Thai naval operations centre was located.

HTMS Pattani, one of the two Thai ships taking part in the 28-country anti-piracy mission, was immediately despatched on a rescue mission.

HTMS Pattani arrived in the attack area on Nov 3 about 7am (local time), but did not see the Thai vessel. A helicopter search was then launched.

About 12.45pm the next day, the helicopter crew spotted an oil slick, flotsam and survivors.

They plucked from the sea seven Thai and 15 Cambodia crew and one Yemeni policeman. Still missing were one Thai crewman and four Yemeni policemen.

According to an account given by the rescued crewmen, the Thai fishing vessel was attacked and seized by 10 armed Somali pirates who arrived on a speed boat on Nov 2.

After the seizure, two of the pirates left on the speed boat while eight others took control of the Thai boat and forced it to sail toward the Somali coast.

About 1am on Nov 3, the trawler was hit by gun shots from another boat of an unknown nationality and sunk.

The crewmen were left drifting in the sea until they were rescued by the Thai patrol ship. They did not know what happened to the eight pirates.

A mystery gun ship? Fire from another Somali pirate vessel? Or some misguided fire from another war ship in the area?

To Everything There Is a Season

For over 12 years, my nearly constant companion:

Good-bye, old friend.

Somali Pirates: Coaster with passengers taken off Tanzania

A small coastal freighter/passenger ship has been taken by Somali pirates in the waters between the Comoros Islands and Tanzania, the EU confirms. The Comoros lie at the mouth of the Mozmbique Channel, south of Somalia. The Mozambique Channel lies between Madagascar and the African mainland.

Reported as MV ALY ZOULFECAR pirated in the Somali Basin:

The MV ALY ZOULFECAR, a Comorian-flagged vessel, was pirated on route between the Comores and Dar Es Salam (Tanzania).

The 43 meters long vessel was in transit from the Comoros to Dar Es Salam when it was attacked. On the morning of 3 November 2010, the Master of the MV ALY ZOULFECAR reported that pirates were on board.

The MV ALY ZOULFECAR has 29 people onboard, of which 9 are crewmembers and 20 passengers. The crew consists of 1 Tanzanian, 4 Comorian and 4 Madagascar. The passengers consist of 12 Tanzanian and 8 Comorian. This makes a total of 13 Tanzanian, 12 Comorian and 4 Malagasy on board the pirated vessel.

UPDATE: NATO report (here) a ship pirated at 05°15 S 043°39 E. See map below:

Somali Piracy: Updates

From the NATO Shipping Centre (NSC):

Pirates continue to utilize dhows or fishing vessels as mother ships in the Somali Basin. Recent incidents in this area include the pirating MV YORK (04°10S 041°15E) and the dhow SEA QUEEN. It is likely that the pirated fishing vessel GOLDEN WAVE was used in the pirating of MV YORK. The FV TAI YUAN 227 probably was involved in several unsuccessful attacks east of 67 degrees east over the last few weeks has likely returned to an anchorage and is no longer considered an active piracy threat. Another dhow is likely responsible for the 24 Oct attack on the MV BELUGA FORTUNE (03°30N 059°30E) highlighting the continued threat to shipping is this area.

Improved weather conditions should allow for improved visual and radar detection ranges of vessels of this size. Small vessels particularly skiffs, dhows and fishing vessels observed in the open ocean more than 300Nm from the Somali coast should be regarded with suspicion.

And, as warned yesterday (here), the pirates are alleged to be using a new "mother ship" in support of their operations.

UPDATE: And, an update to the update (a little redundancy, but I'm pressed for time):

Updated 3 November.

The south-west monsoon has now passed and conditions are now conducive for piracy operations off the Somali Coast and into the Somali Basin.The anticipated surge of activity is focused along the coast predominately in southern areas targeting local and international shipping in the vicinity of Kismayo, Dar es Salaam and Mombasa.

Pirates continue to utilize dhows or fishing vessels as mother ships in the Somali Basin. Recent incidents in this area include the pirating MV YORK (04°10S 041°15E) and the dhow SEA QUEEN. It is likely that the pirated fishing vessel GOLDEN WAVE was used in the pirating of MV YORK.  The FV TAI YUAN 227 probably was involved in several unsuccessful attacks east of 67 degrees east over the last few weeks has likely returned to an anchorage and is no longer considered an active piracy threat. Another dhow is likely responsible for the 24 Oct attack on the MV BELUGA FORTUNE (03°30N 059°30E) highlighting the continued threat to shipping is this area.

Improved weather conditions should allow for improved visual and radar detection ranges of vessels of this size. Small vessels particularly skiffs, dhows and fishing vessels observed in the open ocean more than 300Nm from the Somali coast should be regarded with suspicion.

Activity in the GOA temporarily spiked over the past weekend with two attacks: the first attacks in a week. These attacks occurred between 48 degrees 30 minutes and 50 degrees east in or very near to IRTC and were disrupted by counter piracy forces. Vigilant watches and early reporting remain are the keys for the rapid intervention by helicopters and warships.

Updated 3 November.    

Somali Pirates have sailed the MV AL NISR AL SAUDI to act as a mother ship east of Socotra Island threatening ships in the approached to the GOA. She is assessed as being involved in the attack on the MV GO TRADER in position 15°06N 055°58E.

        Ships shout be vigilant of a possible pirate action group using a mother ship, with two small skiffs in position 07°21N 064°03E. Small vessels particularly skiffs, dhows and fishing vessels observed in the open ocean more than 300Nm from the Somali coast should be regarded with suspicion.

         Mariners are advised that the MV Izumi has left her anchorage of Somalia and is heading south, last known position 03°45 S 046°45 E at 0410UTC 3 November 2010. MV Izumi might be used by pirates as a mother ship, any merchant vessel observing MV Izumi visual or by AIS is advised that the pirates onboard pose an active threat.

An unknown vessel possible a dhow has been observed in Pos 05°15 S 043°39 E at 0659 UTC 3 November 2010, this is a possible mother ship and should be considered an active threat.

Somali Pirates: NATO Says Pirates Have a New Mother Ship

Reported by the NATO Shipping Centre (NSC):

Somali Pirates have sailed the MV AL NISR AL SAUDI to act as a mother ship east of Socotra Island threatening ships in the approached to the GOA. She is assessed as being involved in the attack on the MV GO TRADER in position 15°06N 055°58E.

More from NATO:

November 02 2010
WARNING Somali Basin
Latitude: 03°58S Longitude: 043°49E
Alert number 459 / 2010.
At 0307 UTC 02 NOV a merchant vessel was under attack by pirates in position 03°58S 043°49E.
***This vessel managed to evade hijack***
The Pirate action group is still in the area.