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Tanker Ship MONJASA REFORMER Attacked by Pirates

by | Mar 28, 2023 | Maritime Law, Pirate Activity

On March 26, 2023, the product tanker MONJASA REFORMER was boarded by pirates.  The ship was off the coast of the Republic of Congo when it was attacked.  According to reports, crew were able to muster on the vessel.  It is unclear if the pirates remain on board.

Safe offshore companies must adequately prepare for the danger posed by piracy, or their crew members are at risk of serious injury or death.  There have been a number of incidents involving piracy on vessels and offshore platforms.  Pirates recently attacked two vessels in the Bay of Campeche.  The oil tanker MARAN POSEIDON was attacked by pirates on December 12, 2022.  The general cargo ship MARTINA was attacked and boarded by pirates on September 14, 2022.

It can be dangerous to work in any profession when safety considerations are not made.  This is especially so when working offshore. Safe maritime companies must consider piracy precautions to ensure that their ships or offshore platforms do not put the lives of their crew members at risk.  The risks of catastrophic injury or kidnapping due to pirate activity is especially high in certain regions of the world that have historically had a problem ensuring the safety of vessels.  When ship operators fail to account for the hazards posed by known pirate activity, catastrophic injuries or deaths can result.  Safe companies must help their ships, platforms and crews avoid becoming victims of piracy.  Before sailing or allowing work in dangerous waters, safe maritime companies must perform at a bare minimum the following:

Conducting a risk assessment related to piracy;
Create and educate crewmembers regarding ship self-protection measures; and
Implement policies and procedures on what to do if attacked by pirates.

Our attorneys have extensive experience in maritime personal injury and wrongful death litigation and the skills needed to represent the families of loved ones who have lost their lives or those who have been seriously injured as a result of the negligence of another party. Spagnoletti Law Firm has lawyers admitted to practice in Texas, Florida and New York, and has handled maritime lawsuits throughout the country, including those involving pirate attacks.

The experienced maritime attorneys at Spagnoletti Law Firm can help you understand your rights if you or a loved one was a victim of piracy. There are strict and short time limits on making claims related to vessel accidents, so please contact us online or call 713-804-9306 to learn more about your rights.