Hellespont Protector:Thais let pirate skiff go

With the MV Hellespont Protector increasing its speed, the suspected pirates were unable to catch the merchant vessel and aborted their attack, dropping their weapons into the water in an attempt to escape.

Within minutes, HTMS Similan's boarding team apprehended the skiff and, after taking records, the skiff was forced back to the Somali coast. A warning of suspected pirate activity was issued to fishing boats and commercial ships in the region. earlier

Pirates attacked the 73,821 dwt products tanker ‘Hellespont Protector’ in the Gulf of Aden, according to Hellespont, but were unsuccessful in their bid to capture the vessel.

The tanker was approached by the pirates’ vessel while it was sailing in a Thai navy convoy.

“When the attack occurred, the master took evasive action to deter the pirates. The Thai navy launched a helicopter in response to the request for assistance by the vessel,” the company said.

Hellespont Ship Management GmbH & Co KG.

HELLESPONT PROTECTOR General Specifications
General Specifications P&I Club
Call Sign: A8LD3 P&I Club Britannnia
Flag: Liberia
Hull: Double hull Capacities
Built: 2007-12 Oil @ 98% m3:: 81,302
Yard: NCS Oil @ 98% Barrels: 531,198
Class: ABS Slop tanks only @ 98% 2,833
IMO number: 9351452