The Nigerian Navy Special Boat Service has rescued 18 crew members of a Chinese vessel, MV HAILUFANG II which was attacked by pirates off the Coast of Cote d’ Ivoire.
Briefing journalists in Abuja, the Coordinator, Defence Media Operations Major General John Enenche said, the pirates took control of the vessel and directed the vessel towards Nigerian Waters.
The vessel had 18 crew members comprising Chinese, Ghanaians and Ivorians.
“The Nigerian Navy was alerted of the pirate attack and immediately, the Nigerian Navy Ship NGURU was dispatched to intercept the vessel.
“On interception of the vessel at about 140 nautical miles south of Lagos Fairway Buoy, the pirates refused to comply to the orders of the Nigerian Navy Ship, hence the Nigerian Navy had to conduct an opposed boarding of the vessel.
“All the ship crew were safely rescued, while the 10 pirates were also arrested.” He said.