On Wednesday 5 April Operation Atalanta’s Italian frigate, ITS Espero, visited fuel tanker, MT Aris 13, to provide reassurance to the crew following their release from pirate hands after a three-day ordeal.

ITS Espero’s marines were warmly welcomed on board by the eight Sri Lankan crew. The crew was able to provide valuable information about the pirate attack.  Since her release MT Aris 13 has spent time near to Bossaso harbour; she is now heading to the port of Djibouti.

During their patrols sailors from Operation Atalanta warships regularly meet seafarers to explain the European Union’s counter-piracy role and to better understand seafarers’ concerns.  These meetings at sea also help EU NAVFOR commanders to enhance their understanding of the maritime situation off the coast of Somalia.  This in turn helps to ensure that EU NAVFOR counter-piracy patrols remain focused in sea areas with the greatest piracy threat, thus helping to keep more seafarers safe.