Pirates head for Maersk Virginia

SOMALIA - Yesterday it was reported that Somali pirates operating in the Gulf of Aden attempted to approach US vessel Maersk Virginia.

Virginia, which is owned by the same US based shipping company who own the Maesrk Alabama, began evasive maneuvers and contacted authorities whilst attempting to avoid contact with the pirates. Naval warships close by deployed helicopters to defend the 950-foot container ship.

It is reported that the pirates came within 0.75 nautical miles of the Virginia before turning away. US

Navy Seals had to rescue Captain Richard Phillips of the Maesrk Alabama, who was held by Somali pirates for 4 days.