Attacks by pirates in the east African portion of the Atlantic Ocean have escalated. The aim of the Nigerian pirates as opposed to Somali and south Asian pirates is the seizure of the vessel. The pirates seem to be interested in nothing but the capturing of the ship and kidnapping of the crew with the intent to either kill them or trade them for cash. The European consul of naval safety predicts that unless escorts are sent, the problem will only increase. Please note: these attacks go unreported by the press.

06/30/2012, A large sea vessel, carrying raw foodstuff, was approached by a wooden pirate vessel. The pirate speed boat chased he vessel for a few miles, and then began firing AK-47s and RPGs At the ship. The ship suffered collapsed windows, minor damage to the hull and base deck and a damaged wave rotor. The crew where perfectly safe, thanks to the implementation of a "safety citadel", the pirates apparently lost interest and sped away after the ship refused to stop. Nigerian Pirates Courtesy of BBC