Cargo Vessels Warned To Take Precautions Off Nigerian Coast

NIGERIA – Following our piece yesterday regarding attacks on oil facilities in the Niger Delta authorities have now issued a maritime security alert concerning all shipping in the area, be it passenger or freight based. The rebel group MEND who oppose what they say is the theft of Nigeria’s oil by the government in collusion with overseas oil companies are reported to be readying for more attacks on the oil installations.

With elections scheduled for next year MEND, or the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta to give them their full title, can be seen as freedom fighters or terrorists dependant on ones point of view. Cargo vessels plying their trade in the area will not care either way but have been warned to take all possible precautions in the light of the latest statements emanating from the group.

MEND have accepted responsibility for the both the recent attacks which saw around 15 foreign hostages seized and explosives detonated at the facilities. Now MEND say they are planning further coordinated attacks in the light of ‘indiscriminate bombing and strafing of communities in the Niger Delta and locations in the creeks and swamps suspected of accommodating militia camps by the Nigerian military’.

The latest attack was in the Oso field where several offshore rigs are located. All vessels should be excessively cautious when operating in the region.