If you have insured cargo on board the following vessels and would like us to assist you in pursuing any claims arising from these incidents (or any similar cases), or if you require assistance in providing GA or salvage guarantees, please contact us as soon as possible.
Date: 26th March 2012 Type: Hijacking Voyage: Brazil to Iran
Reports have been received that Bolivian flag vessel EGLANTINE (39424gt built 2000) has been hijacked by Somali pirates in the Indian Ocean.
The attack took place at the eastern edge of the region which is covered by anti-piracy naval forces. It is believed there is a crew of 23 on board the vessel. Pirates have operated successfully in this area in the past.
It is likely that a ransom demand will be made by the pirates quite shortly. Shipowners commonly claim a proportion of any ransom payment from cargo owners as a general average contribution.
Because ransom payments can often lead to a very large claim on cargo insurers, it is important that the full circumstances of the hijacking are investigated.
We have acted for cargo insurers in respect of piracy incidents in the past and have often been able to negotiate reductions in general average payments requested from cargo insurers.
