Somalia and Turkey rescue hijacked ship, kill 14 pirates

Somalia and Turkey have successfully liberated a hijacked ship off the coast of the Somali state of Puntland, concluding a 10-day "sustained military pressure" operation that resulted in the deaths of 14 pirates. The Somali Ministry of Defense announced the operation's success, stating that the sustained pressure ultimately forced the remaining pirates to abandon the vessel.

During the operation, four pirate boats were destroyed. The ministry's statement did not specify the cargo of the rescued ship. However, international media reported that the cargo ship, sailing under a Cameroonian flag, had departed from Turkey in late July and was en route to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Some reports also suggested that Turkish weapons were on board, though Somali authorities have not confirmed this.

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sustained military pressure

The rescue comes as the Horn of Africa coast experiences a significant resurgence in piracy. Since April, there have been at least 15 attacks off the coast of Somalia this year, marking a record high since 2013, according to an analysis of International Maritime Organization data by AFP. At least five ships remain in the hands of Somali pirates, with the most recent hijacking occurring on August 20 off the coast of Yemen.

Turkish forces secured the MV LATUF, which has since resumed its journey safely. The joint operation highlights the ongoing efforts by Somalia and its international partners, like Turkey, to combat piracy in the region, despite the persistent threat and the increasing number of attacks.

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The sustained military pressure has finally forced the remaining pirates to abandon the ship