INCIDENT OVER – ONGOING THREAT TO VESSELS IN THE AREA
Event: Suspicious Approach
IMB Level: 2
Date and Time: 18 June 2020, 0540hrs local time
Location: 265nm W of Annobon Island, International Waters.
Position: 01°38.0’S, 001°13.2’E
Distance from Shore: Approx. 483nm from mainland
Vessel Details
Type: Gas Tanker
L x B: 225m x 36m
Speed: 15.3kts
Event Details
Kidnapped: 0
Injured: 0
Killed: 0
Security Present: None
Weather: Gentle Breeze / 0mm precipitation
Wave Height: 1.4m
Threat Details
Number of Perpetrators: Not reported
Number of Craft: 2 vessels, with 1 larger craft that approached the tanker. Other similar craft seen in the area as well.
Weapons Seen: Not reported
Equipment Seen: Not reported
Description: A tanker sailing westwards identified two unknown vessels on AIS and altered course to increase distance between them. When vessel was about 4nm from the vessels, one suddenly
changed course towards the vessel and increased her speed up to 10.6kts. The tanker increased to maximum speed and altered course, and crew mustered. Once the tanker reached 15.6kts, the distance grew and the suspicious vessel slowed down. All safe onboard,
vessel continued its sail westwards and authorities informed.
Analysis: Whilst this incident took place deep offshore in international waters, the number of incidents recently off Gabon show an increased threat in the area. The number of craft suggest
fishermen, however the aggression shown by the vessel, with the sudden increase in speed, is extremely unusual behaviour. Vessels in the area should remain extremely vigilant.
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