🔗 Share this article EU Naval Forces Rescue Sailors After Somalia Piracy Incident on Oil Tanker The Hellas Aphrodite was seized by armed attackers on recently European Union maritime units have safely freed 24 sailors from a Malta-registered oil tanker that was attacked by sea robbers off the coast of Somalia. The vessel, which was carrying fuel from India to South African destinations, was seized on the recent incident when armed pirates opened fire with machine guns and explosive projectiles before boarding the vessel. All sailors secured themselves inside a secure safe room while the attackers assumed command of the ship. Mission Accomplished A naval vessel, functioning under the European Union's maritime security operation, reached the tanker on the following day. Elite military units entered the craft and discovered all two dozen sailors safe and sound. "The crew is safe and no injuries have been reported. During the ordeal, they remained in the secure area in constant communication with command center," officials announced, adding that a "show of force" had convinced the attackers to leave the vessel before the naval unit reached the location. Continuing Danger Authorities emphasized that the danger level in the area "remains critical" as the pirates are still in the area. The rescue operation involved a helicopter, drone and surveillance aircraft. Shortly before, another ship in the same area was approached by a small speedboat but managed to evade it. Resurgence of Piracy This incident represents the latest in a spate of attacks that have raised alarms about a resurgence of maritime crime in the area. Such activity had decreased when international naval patrols and protective protocols were implemented after reaching their highest point more than a ten years past. Nevertheless, attacks by militant groups on vessels in the Red Sea, which have been carried out for the past two years, have caused vessels to be diverted through the African coastline - opening up new opportunities for Somali gangs. Statistical Overview Seven reported incidents of piracy occurred off the coast of Somalia in the previous year Three hijackings were documented among these incidents A single case of maritime crime was reported in the preceding year Maritime security experts continue to monitor the developments as shipping companies navigate these potentially hazardous waters.