Attack on Vessel 30nm South East Egina Terminal 99nm South Bonny Island

Reporting indicates that the MV LANA has been attacked by a single skiff with 6 persons on board. Further reporting indicates that shots have been fired. The vessel increased speed and conducted anti-piracy manoeuvres. It is understood that the perpetrators were unable to bard the vessel and were seen to withdrew heading east.

The vessel and crew remain safe.

This is the first incident to occur within this area in 2020. This incident sits in close proximity (30nm SE) to a concentration of serious Maritime security incidents that occurred throughout 2019 in the Nigeria-Sao Tome JDZ. It is assessed that incidents in this area have been perpetuated by the relative absence of formalised security presence throughout the area. Perpetrators operating within this area have relative freedom of movement to conduct operations against vulnerable vessels. International Maritime response has improved recently with the Portuguese Navy establishing a semi-permanent presence out of Santo Antonio, however security coverage of the area remains limited.