Royal Navy Captures 13 Somali Pirates

The Royal Navy has captured 13 Somali pirates onboard a sail boat in the Indian Ocean, the Ministry of Defence has said.

A combined Nato-led counter-piracy force successfully intercepted the vessel which was known to be operating off the Somali coast.

Both Royal Fleet Auxiliary Fort Victoria and United States Ship Carney manoevered into position around the dhow and encouraged her to comply with the British and American forces.

After the boat refused to cooperate, a Royal Navy helicopter with Royal Marine maritime snipers was deployed to provide various clear warnings to the suspects to stop.

The boat refused to comply until Royal Marines in speedboats approached and successfully boarded it, forcing the suspects to surrender.

There were 13 Somali pirates on board together with a selection of weapons.

Defence Secretary Philip Hammond said:"This operation off the coast of Somalia is a clear demonstration of Britain's ability to tackle piracy that threatens our interests.

"The Royal Navy and Royal Marines are playing a crucial role in securing and protecting international sea lanes that are vital to global trade. The Royal Navy and Royal Marines can be proud of this successful interception."

Captain Shaun P Jones RFA, Commanding Officer of RFA Fort Victoria, said: "I am extremely proud of the way in which my crew and helicopter in tandem with embarked Royal Marines were able to successfully capture these Somali pirates.

"To manoeuvre such a large ship at speed in close vicinity of a nimble dhow takes extreme concentration and skill; my team were never found wanting. The 13 Somalis certainly found Friday 13th unlucky for them!"