Operation Atalanta’s Dutch Flagship, HNLMS Tromp, recently provided assistance to a Somali fishing vessel adrift off the coast of Somalia.
Whilst on patrol off the coast of Somalia to deter and disrupt piracy, sailors aboard HNLMS Tromp noticed fishermen signaling in distress from a nearby vessel. The warship launched two of her sea boats to check on the fishing vessel and its crew.
The fishermen had experienced engine problems after three weeks at sea and were drifting off the Somali coast with no chance of getting back to shore. Engineers from HNLMS Tromp were able to quickly fix the mechanical problem with the engine and also provide the fishermen with drinking water and fuel.
Operation Atalanta protects and maintains maritime security off the Somali coast in order to ensure all seafarers are able to use the waters safely, without fear of pirate attack.