Belgian frigate Louise-Marie arrests three alleged pirates
Original Source: Belgian Ministry of Defence
On Thursday 27 December at 11:30 local time (8:30 Belgian time), the Belgian frigate Louise-Marie again intercepted a skiff and three suspected pirates were arrested.
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BNS Louise-Marie Photo: EUNAVFOR
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This action, the second arrest in two weeks, took place 400 miles off the Somali Coast by a Swedish EU NAVFOR maritime patrol aircraft. BNS Louise-Marie was tasked to conduct a surface search and was able to quickly locate the vessel. Upon arrival at the scene the warship’s boarding team was deployed to apprehend the three suspect pirates. The boarding team found several fuel barrels, but once again no weapons. During the boarding action, a Belgian soldier was accidentally wounded in the leg. He was treated in the infirmary, where all the necessary medical personnel and equipment was available.
After the men were taken on board BNS Louise Marie, analysis of the event was undertaken and evidence collected. Having looked at the evidence available, the decision was taken to put the men ashore onto a Somali beach.
The frigate Louise-Marie is currently participating in the mission ATALANTA, European anti-piracy operations off the Somali coast.
Later reports claim the Louise-Marie began tracking a suspicious skiff on Thursday. The boarding team intercepted the boat during very turbulent seas and choppy waves. As a result of one very heavy swell, a commando accidentally shot himeslf in the foot with a heavy assault weapon. The injury was considered serious enough to warrant repatriation. The Louise-Marie continued to dock in Port of Victoria, Seychelles.
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