MVCHARIS

General information

Course/Position

Latest news

Leasing firm confirmed release of hijacked tug

The C&I Leasing Plc has confirmed the release of the "Charis" which was hijacked by sea pirates in Equatorial Guinea, while also commending the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), for the swift intervention and timely release of its vessel. According to the Managing Director C&I Leasing the tug was on its way to execute a recovery contract in Equatorial Guinea, when it was hijacked. The pirates attempted to use the ship to attack another vessel, the "Blue Marlin", before they were arrested by the authorities of Equatorial Guinea, which detained both vessels. The tug was released on May 29, after a series of interrogation and negotiations with the support of NIMASA representatives, Ambassador Gongulong, Navy Captain, and the Spanish Navy. The ship sailed on May 31 following inspections and repairs.

Tug captured and used as attack ship, freed by Spanish Navy

The "Charis" was boarded and hijacked by pirates, about 30 miles southwest of Bioko Island, Equatorial Guinea, in position 03 04 N, long 007 59 E, on May 5, 2019, at 1 p.m. It was believed that the tug was the vessel used by the pirates to attack the Malta flagged Boskalis semi-submersible heavy lift vessel "Blue Marlin" which was under way in the area. The "Charis" was declared to have been freed from pirates following the rescue of the "Blue Marlin" by the Spanish naval patrol vessel SPS "Serviola".