Pirates taking advantage of sunrise and sunset

NATO reports that pirate activity has increased in the Southern Red Sea. Over the September 24-25 2011 period, there was one attack/boarding by pirates and three suspicious approaches.  The attack occurred on September 25 at 1410N 04250E. The crew secured themselves in their citadel and the pirates abandoned the attack. The three suspicious approaches occurred in the same area. The approaches involved one-to-two skiffs.

NATO warns that latest reports indicate that pirates use sunrise/sunset to approach from the direction of the low sun in order to gain extra time for surprise. Skiffs may also be painted dark blue. Ships are advised to be extra vigilant during these times.

September 26, 2011