Somali Pirates Kill Crewmember & Torch Seychelles Ship

Piracy threat and scope of violence escalating.

Dutch freighter released, but Ukrainian crewmember killed:

The Somali pirates released the 2,575 ton Dutch cargo ship, M/V MARATHON, after two months of it being captured. But, a Ukrainian crewmember was shot and killed and another crewmember was wounded.

The Dutch operator, Cargadoor Amons and Company, declined to comment on the shooting incident and refused to say if they had paid a ransom. Dutch marines provided an escort for the vessel and medical assistance to the crew.

Seychelles Ship Burned:

A research vessel from the Seychelles Islands was burned after its crew of seven was released. The M/V INDIAN OCEAN EXPLORER was destroyed because the owner paid only $450,000 of the demanded ransom of $1 million.

The pirates told news organizations the ship’s owner was reluctant to negotiate and they decided to burn the ship after he refused to pay the full amount.