Italian special forces took action on Friday after a cargo ship sailing from Turkey to France, the Galata Seaways, was threatened by individuals claiming to be “pirates.” The vessel, under a Turkish flag with 22 crew members onboard, encountered the incident in Italian waters near the island of Ischia. According to Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto, marines were deployed via helicopters to board the ship as a response to the crew being threatened with knives by a group of stowaways.
Reports indicate that approximately 15 stowaways had boarded the ship in Turkey with the intention of reaching Europe. However, their presence was discovered by the crew. The exact nationalities of the aggressors, who appeared to be migrants, remain unknown. ANSA news agency reported that the migrants attempted to take some of the crew hostage within the bridge of the ship. The captain urgently sought help by radioing Ankara, who then alerted Italian authorities.
Once special forces intervened, some of the stowaways were arrested, while others barricaded themselves within the depths of the ship’s hold. The large size of the vessel made it challenging to locate and apprehend all individuals. Italian Defence Minister Crosetto mentioned that upon hearing the helicopter, some of the stowaways attempted to flee and possibly escape by sea under the cover of darkness. The situation is ongoing, and authorities are working to identify the motives and identities of the individuals involved.
The Italian ministry reported that the operation involved coast guard and financial police boats in addition to the special forces. The cargo ship was safely escorted towards Naples, where it anchored just outside the port. Heavy police presence was observed in the area as the investigation and resolution of the incident continued. The swift and decisive action by Italian special forces ensured the safety of the crew and brought the situation under control.