Pirate attacks doubled off the coast of West Africa in February, according to maritime risk company AKE
In its latest piracy report, AKE said that there were at least eight incidents reported throughout the month.
ALE has warned that pirate tactics are becoming even more violent in the region, after two crew members were killed and three abducted and held onshore over the course of February.
AKE maritime specialist Rory Lamrock said, “Attacks are expected to increase in frequency off Nigeria and Benin in particular.
“Incidents should also be anticipated as far as 120 nautical miles from the Nigerian coast.”
The eight attacks represent a relatively high number of attacks for the region forming part of a growing trend, the report added.
“Reports suggest criminals may be hijacking local fishing vessels to launch attacks further out to sea, where naval or coast guard capacity is particularly weak,” noted Lamrock.
