Spanish LNG carrier attacked by pirates in Gulf of Guinea

The Spanish LNG carrier La Mancha Knutsen was attacked by pirates in Gulf of Guinea on 90 nautical miles south off Port Harcourt, Nigeria. The tanker was approached by suspicious motor skiff from the stern with at least 7 heavy armed men on board. The Master raised alarm and increased speed, maneuvering to avoid boarding of the vessel. The pirates opened fire against the bridge of the LNG carrier, but after several minutes abandoned the attack and fled to the shore.

After the unsuccessful attack the ship La Mancha Knutsen reported the accident to the local authorities and headed to Bonny, later during the day was berthed at the port for investigation. The LNG carrier was proceeding through Gulf of Guinea without security guards on board.

Fortunately during the accident there were no injuries and no material damages reported. The company operator refused to comment the piracy attack before getting in contact with the Master and until completion of the investigation.

The Spanish LNG carrier La Mancha Knutsen left Port of Aliaga in Turkey on February 25 and in early March it crossed the Canary Islands. Last Sunday the vessel was near to waters of Sierra Leone before entering the Gulf of Guinea, where was attacked by pirates.

Maritime Herald