NATO forces prevent pirates hijack attempt

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Source: CCTV.com | 05-03-2009 12:29

Special forces on a Portuguese warship have seized explosives from suspected Somali pirates after thwarting an attack on an oil tanker. The 19 men involved in the attack were freed.

Special forces on a Portuguese warship have seized explosives from suspected Somali pirates after thwarting an attack on an oil tanker. (CCTV.com)

Lieutenant Commander Fernandes, on board the Portuguese frigate the Corte-Real, said it was the first time North Atlantic Treaty Organization forces had found pirates armed with raw explosives.

The incident occurred about 161 kilometres north of the Somali coast in the Gulf of Aden.

The 19 pirate suspects were released after consultation with Portuguese authorities because they had not attacked Portuguese property or citizens.