WASHINGTON/RIYADH: The US Navy has successfully deterred an attempted hijacking of a cargo ship that was linked to a Middle Eastern country.
The US military said they had captured five attackers who seized the cargo ship and the crew members were not hurt.
US Navy responded to a call
According to the US Central Command, the US Navy destroyer USS Mason received a call for help from the cargo ship.
CENTCOM said they responded immediately by dispatching the USS Mason, with support from allied ships. The CENTCOM said the Navy ordered the hijackers to release the crew at once, which they did.
Armed men attempted to flee
The cargo ship, which was shipping phosphoric acid, was taken over by five armed men.
“Upon arrival, coalition elements demanded the release of the vessel. Subsequently, five armed individuals debarked the ship and attempted to flee via their small boat. The MASON pursued the attackers resulting in their eventual surrender”, CENTCOM said.
This is the second hijacking attempt that occurred in the Gulf of Aden amid volatile situation in the Middle East.
