Spanish fishermen are to get some protection after the pirate attacks on the Spanish boat Alakrana.Fifty two security officers have flown to the Seychelles to protect the fishermen.These fishermen fish in waters near Somalia and consequently they are vulnerable.They are in international waters but this does not deter the pirates.
These security officers have undergone training in the military training academy in Cartagena.They will be permitted to carry guns on their boats.The Spanish government has passed a law which permits private security companys to work on boats flying the Spanish flag.
These officers are only allowed to use the weapons to prevent and dissuade the pirates from attacking the fishing boats and of course to defend themselves in the case of an armed attack.
In total 13 Spanish tuna ships have been tied up in Port Victoria for several weeks due to the recent pirate attacks.Each has now been allocated four private security officers and the fishermen are due to set sail as soon as they are on board.The Alakrana was taken by the pirates even though it was being watched by a Spanish frigate and air surveillance.Hopefully these private security officers will not cause fishermen to be killed.
