EU NAVFOR warship, ITS LIBECCIO, has been engaged on operations along the northern coast of Somalia and on 21 November, the Italian Frigate performed a “friendly approach” on a Yemeni fishing dhow, towing three skiffs.
The ITS LIBECCIO sent a boarding team to the dhow on a routine vessel check. An open discussion between the two crews developed and the boarding party were investigated onto the dhow. which can open opportunities to obtain valuable information regarding to piracy activities in the area. The dhow, with a crew of 16, (10 Somalis and 6 Arabs) was inspected by the boarding team, fishing a catch of fish and all in order.
Building positive relations between law abiding fishermen and EU NAVFOR warships is an important part of EU NAVFOR’s work at sea. Confidence building with those who honestly make use of the sea for their livelihood and travel, while displaying professionalism and deterrence against illegal acts of piracy, is a valuable part of the maritime military mission.