War On Terror News

Policing for Profit: Highway Robbery on a Suspicion, by the Government

In the practice of special counter-drug patrols, cars and semi-trucks are pulled over on excuses of small infractions. The targets have out of state license plates. They are then "asked" if they will allow a search of their vehicle. (Just say NO!) The police are looking for cash. The cash is then seized on the suspicion that it is drug profits. The driver is pushed to deny ownership to make the legal proceedings simpler. The cash is then kept by the law enforcement agencies involved in seizing it. If the Citizen wants his money back, the prosecutor's office requires them to fight for it, with lawyers, sometimes for years, at considerable cost.

While it was Tennessee's journalists that uncovered it here, these shakedowns are not just happening here.  News Channel 5, WSMV, Nashville has been investigating the illegal seizures of property for two years, since the Institute for Justice came out with their report.  What they found was an abuse of power, greed, and corruption.  It is clear from the words of those in power, those stealing from The People, that it is a breach of the Constitution.  The people of Tennessee are outraged over it, even though the police are targeting guests of our great state. 

The Institute of Justice points out that this practice is happening elsewhere.  It includes Michigan, Texas, and Georgia in its reports as being worse than Tennessee, and more than half the Nation gets graded at least as bad.  It found that in 2008, more than $1 Billion had been seized from individual Citizens and was being held by the Department of Justice's Assets Forfeiture Fund.  Download Inst for Justice - Policing for Profit

NewsChannel5.com | Nashville News, Weather

I encourage you to watch the video series.  The defense of the practice by prosecutors and police officers should enrage you.  When a police officer says "he didn't prove it wasn't drug money," it demonstrates a practice of "guilty until proven innocent."

"It is illegal to have proceeds." [of criminal activity], District Attorney General Kim Helper.  The "fact that no one ever claimed the money proves it was illegal."

"The doctrine of in rem  forfeiture arose from Medieval ideas, rooted in the ancient law of “deodand.” Kings, for instance, could seize an instrument that caused the death of another in order to finance the deceased’s funeral mass. The idea arose from a superstitious belief that objects acted independently to cause death."  Policing for Profit, Institute of Justice

 

NewsChannel5.com | Nashville News, Weather

There is nothing illegal about using and/or having cash.  I understand that in today's world few people use cash, but short of gold and silver, paper currency is still the closest thing to real money.

Constitutionally, it is the burden of the prosecutor and police to prove guilt in a crime, not the accused to prove innocence.  This fundamental premise must be upheld in law, in legislation, and in practice.

Constitutionally, you and your property cannot be searched without proof of cause.  It cannot be seized without Warrant.

"The right of the people to be secure in their persons, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures shall NOT be violated.." 4th Amendment, Bill of Rights, US Constitution

".. nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation." 5th Amendment, Bill of Rights, US Constitution

If you are pulled over and asked to forfeit your Rights, i.e., "Can we look in your vehicle?"  Just say NO!  It may be the practice, but it is un-Constitutional, for the government to presume you are guilty because you retain your rights.

What should happen now?  The Governor and Legislature of Tennessee should act to remove the excuse for unlawful search and seizure.  The Judges should clamp down on the practice and protect the Constitution they swore to uphold.  And beginning with the DAG Kim Helper, and including every official uncovered in Channel 5's investigation, demonstrating the corrupt and un-Constitutional "justification" for these roadside shakedowns should be fired, and stripped of any chance of ever being in a position of authority again.  Ms. Helper should be disbarred.

And Citizens of other States should press for their governments to do the same.  I'm all for seizing the finances of criminal organizations, but that money is not guilty of anything.  The owner of the money must be proven to have gained it through criminal activity, before it can be seized.

Related articles

Government, the Thief

Citizenship & Constitution: Your Freedoms and My "Right" to Restrict it

What Were the Founding Fathers Thinking!?!?

Tennessee: Appellate Court Upholds License Plate Roadblocks

Supreme Court doubtful on warrantless police detention

Government, the Thief

Disturbing Detention: Former Marine held for Facebook Rants

Tennessee Department of Safety to begin Christmas Holiday Enforcement December 21st

Somali pirates release 4 Koreans

South Korean officials say Somali pirates have released four commercial seamen they had held for 19 months, after the payment of a ransom.

A South Korean foreign ministry official said Saturday the ministry had assisted in ransom talks between the ship's owner and the pirates, but declined to say how much had been paid for their release.  The men are now on board a South Korean navy ship.

The sailors were among the crew of the tanker MT Gemini, who were captured on April 30, 2011, while traveling from Kenya to Malaysia. 

Seven months later, the pirates freed the vessel, but broke an agreement to release all of the crew, keeping the four Koreans captive, while releasing the 21 non-Korean sailors.

The pirates released most of the crew after the tanker's Singaporean owners paid a ransom reportedly totaling $6 million.

The waters off Somalia are notorious for pirate attacks, but the has seen such incidents fall sharply this year as AfriCom Troops push al-Qaeda affiliated al-Shabab Islamist terrorists out of strongholds in ports and other areas.  VoA.

Related articles

Somali Pirates Demand Money for Dead Pirates

Somali Pirates Release Two Tanker Ships

Pirates Seize Super Tanker, Irene SL, with $200 Million in Oil

Chemical Tanker Hijacked by Somali Pirates

Somali Pirates Released Indonesian Ship, MV Sinar Kudus, on Sunday

Nigerian Pirates release 7 hostages

Kidnappers have freed seven sailors, including six Russians and an Estonian, who were abducted last month from a ship off the coast of Nigeria.

French company Bourbon, which owns the ship, said Thursday the crew members are in good condition and would leave Nigeria in a few days after undergoing medical tests.

The company did not say if any ransom had been paid to release them.

The sailors were abducted October 15 near Nigeria's Niger Delta region.  Nine other crew members made it safely to port.

Pirate attacks are the rise in the Gulf of Guinea, which now rivals Somalia as Africa's most dangerous waters for shipping.

The International Maritime Bureau warns ships to be careful off the coasts of Nigeria, Benin, Togo and Ivory Coast. VoA.

Germany convicts 10 Somalis of piracy

A German court has convicted 10 Somalis, in the country's first piracy trial in centuries.

The court in Hamburg sentenced the men to prison terms of between two and seven years each.

The Somalis were arrested by the Dutch navy in 2010 after they hijacked a German container ship off the Horn of Africa. 

Defense attorneys had sought acquittals, saying the hijacking was an act of desperation by people living in a country ravaged by war.

Prosecutors had called for sentences of up to 12 years.

Somalia-based pirates have hijacked dozens of ships traveling near the Horn of Africa in recent years, and made hundreds of millions of dollars in ransom.

Attacks have declined sharply this year, as ships take more protective measures and international naval forces closely patrol the coastline, while African Union land forces push al-Qaeda affiliate, al-Shabab Islamist terrorists out of their strongholds. VoA.

Pirated oil tanker found off Nigerian Coast

An oil tanker hijacked in the Gulf of Guinea has been spotted off the coast of Nigeria and the 24 Russian crew members on board are believed to be safe.

The vessel's Greek-based operator, Golden Energy Management, said Wednesday that pirates still have control of the tanker.

The hijackers seized the Greek-owned Energy Centurion off the coast of Togo on Tuesday.  It was anchored about 27 kilometers from the capital, Lome, when the pirates attacked.

A Togo naval ship responded to a distress call and exchanged fire with the pirates, but the attackers managed to gain control of the tanker and set sail.

The operator said it is in contact with what it called “relevant authorities” and believes the pirates' goal is to steal the oil cargo.

Piracy has become a growing problem in the Gulf of Guinea, though not of the same proportions as it was for several years off the coast of Somalia.

The International Maritime Bureau says pirates in the Gulf of Guinea usually release hostages after seizing cargo.  By contrast, Somali pirates typically hold hostages for ransom. VoA.

Pirates take oil tanker on West African coast

A Greek-operated oil tanker has disappeared from sight after being attacked by pirates off the coast of Togo.

Togolese military officials say their forces engaged the pirates in gunfire after the attack Tuesday, but the pirates escaped.

Togo's army chief, Atcha Titikpina, told reporters the ship was headed for neighboring Benin when it disappeared from view.  He said the search for the ship continues.

It is not clear if the pirates hijacked the vessel loaded with oil.   There were about 20 crew members on the ship when it sent a distress signal.

The ship operator, Golden Energy Management, said there has been no word from the crew.  He said pirates in the Gulf of Guinea are more interested in stealing the cargo, especially oil, than kidnapping the crew.

Waters off the coast of Somalia are plagued by pirates who take hostages for ransom and rob cargo from international ships. VoA.  Togo is on the West African coast, whereas Somalia is East Africa.

1st half of 2012: 32 Nigerian piracies; 177 Somali

The number of pirate attacks reported in the first half of 2012 has declined sharply, led by drop in Somalia piracy activity.

In a new report,  the International Maritime Bureau said there were 177 piracy incidents reported in the first six months of this year, compared to 266 incidents for the corresponding period in 2011.

The report says the decrease is mainly due to a decline in Somali piracy, attributing it to “preemptive and disruptive counter-piracy tactics employed by international navies”.

The report  notes, however, that the decline has been offset by an increase in attacks by mainly Nigerian pirates operating in the Gulf of Guinea. Thirty-two incidents, including 5 hijackings, were reported there this year. VoA.

#MilitaryMon Moments of Silence #MoS to #HonorTheFallen 11 JUN 2012 1PM-1:11 ET

"He which hath no stomach to this fight let him depart. But we in it shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother.” (W.Shakespeare) Rest in peace my Brothers, you have not been forgotten.

REQUEST that all afford my Brothers a Moment of Silence each on Monday beginning 1:00 PM, Eastern Time. REQUEST that each Moment of Silence be dedicated each Monday to my Fallen Brothers in order of notification since prior Monday. 1PM Eastern is Kabul 22:30/10:30PM, Baghdad 20:00/8PM, London 18:00/6PM, San Diego 10AM. This time accommodates those in London, Baghdad & Kabul as well as Congress and across the United States.

• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1PM to 1:02 EDT: SGT #Bowe #Bergdahl, Kidnapped by Taliban, Two Minutes until he comes home #POW #MIA #SOT #MoS
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:02-1:03 EDT: SPC Gerardo Campos, Miami, FL 06/02/12 Maiwand AFG 4-23rd Inf Rgt 2nd ID
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:03-1:04 EDT: LCpl Joshua E Witsman, Covington IN 05/30/12 Helmand AFG 2-5 Marines 1st MarDiv
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:04-1:05 EDT: Pte Gregg T Stone, Hull, Yorkshire 06/03/12 Helmand AFG 3rd Bn Lancaster's Rgt
•  #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:05-1:06 EDT: PFC Vincent J Ellis, Tokyo, Japan 06/04/12 Salerno AFG 1-40 Cav Rgt 25th ID
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:06-1:07 EDT: CPT Scott P Pace, Brawley, CA 06/06/12 Qarah Bagh AFG 1-17 Cav Rgt, CAB 82nd ABN Div
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:07-1:08 EDT: 1LT Matthew G Fazzari, Walla Walla, WA 06/06/12 Qarah Bagh AFG 1-17 Cav Rgt, CAB 82nd ABN Div
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:08-1:09 EDT: PFC Brandon D Goodine, Luthersville, GA 06/07/12 Maiwand AFG 4-73rd Cav Rgt 82nd ABN Div
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:09-1:10 EDT: Cpl Anthony R Servin, Moreno Valley, CA 06/08/12 Helmand AFG 2-8 MarRgt, 1st MarDiv
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:10-1:11 EDT: MCPO Richard J Kessler Jr, Gulfport, FL 06/08/12 USS Enterprise, 5th Fleet
•  

 

  

Republication of Moments of Silence WITHOUT attribution is encouraged.  Tailoring quotes and tribute video is encouraged but not required, though it is requested that the times and names be maintained intact.  Each moment is tailored to meet twitter norms and to be tweeted at that time, Each Monday, based on order of notification.

RIP MCPO Richard J Kessler Jr

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a sailor who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

            Master Chief Petty Officer Richard J. Kessler Jr., 47, of Gulfport, Fla., was found deceased in his berthing compartment June 8 on board USS Enterprise (CVN 65).  He was assigned to Enterprise as a logistics specialist.  Enterprise is currently deployed to the Fifth Fleet area of responsibility conducting operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

"He which hath no stomach to this fight let him depart. But we in it shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother.” (W.Shakespeare) Rest in peace my Brothers, you have not been forgotten.

Obama to shift Naval Forces from world to Pacific

U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta says the United States will shift the majority of its warships to the Asia-Pacific region over the next several years as part of a new strategic focus on Asia.

In Singapore Saturday, Panetta told a conference of defense officials from 30 Asia-Pacific nations that the U.S. Navy would reposition its forces from the current approximately 50-50 split between the Pacific and the Atlantic to 60 percent of naval forces in the Pacific and 40 percent in the Atlantic.

The defense secretary also told delegates at the annual Shangri-La Dialogue that the redeployment would be completed by 2020. He pledged to expand U.S. military exercises in the Pacific and port visits in areas such as the Indian Ocean.

A key flashpoint in the region is the South China Sea, which China claims almost entirely as its own. But Taiwan, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei and the Philippines also have territorial claims there.

Panetta assured the delegates that the redistribution of naval forces is not about containing China. He said Washington will not take sides in territorial disputes, and wants Beijing to support a system to clarify rights in the region and help to resolve disputes.

The defense secretary is on a weeklong trip to Asia, which will include stops in Vietnam and India.

#MilitaryMon Moments of Silence #MoS to #HonorTheFallen 28 May 2012 1PM-1:13 ET

"He which hath no stomach to this fight let him depart. But we in it shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother.” (W.Shakespeare) Rest in peace my Brothers, you have not been forgotten.

REQUEST that all afford my Brothers a Moment of Silence each on Monday beginning 1:00 PM, Eastern Time.  REQUEST that each Moment of Silence be dedicated each Monday to my Fallen Brothers in order of notification since prior Monday.  1PM Eastern is Kabul 22:30/10:30PM, Baghdad 20:00/8PM, London 18:00/6PM, San Diego 10AM.  This time accommodates those in London, Baghdad & Kabul as well as Congress and across the United States.

• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1PM to 1:02 EDT: SGT #Bowe #Bergdahl, Kidnapped by Taliban, Two Minutes until he comes home #MIA #SOT #MoS
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:02-1:03 EDT: SGT Michael J Knapp, Overland Park, KS 05/18/12 Asadabad AFG 1-317th FAR 17th Fires BDE
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:03-1:04 EDT: SGT Jabraun S Knox, Fort Wayne, IN 05/18/12 Asadabad AFG 1-317th FAR 17th Fires BDE
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:04-1:05 EDT: SPC Samuel T Watts, Wheaton, IL 05/19/12 Zharay AFG 05/19/12 1-508th PIR 82nd ABN
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:05-1:06 EDT: CPT Jesse A Ozbat, Prince George, VA 05/20/12 Tarin Kowt AFG 168th BSB 214th Fires BDE
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:06-1:07 EDT: 2LT Tobias C Alexander, Lawton, OK 05/20/12 Tarin Kowt AFG 168th BSB 214th Fires BDE
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:07-1:08 EDT: SPC Aaronn D Fields, Terre Haute, IN 05/21/12 Qalah-ye Mirza Jal AFG 81st Troop Cmd
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:08-1:09 EDT: 2LT Travis A Morgado, San Jose, CA 05/23/12 Zharay AFG 5-20th Inf Rgt 2nd ID
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:09-1:10 EDT: PO1 Ryan J Wilson, Shasta, CA 05/20/12 BAHRAIN US Naval Forces CentCom
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:10-1:11 EDT: Cpl Keaton G Coffey, Boring, OR 05/24/12 Helmand AFG 1st LE Bn 1st MarHQ 
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:11-1:12 EDT: PFC Cale C Miller, Overland Park, KS 05/24/12 Maiwand AFG 4-23rd Inf RGT 2nd ID
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:12-1:13 EDT: Snn Eric D Warren, Shawnee, OK 05/26/12 Helmand AFG 1-8 MarRgt 1st MarDiv

 

•  

Republication WITHOUT attribution of Moments of Silence is encouraged.  Tailoring quotes and tribute video is encouraged but not required, while it is requested that the times and names be maintained intact.  Each moment is tailored to meet twitter norms and to be tweeted at that time, Each Monday, based on order of notification.

HMS Westminster nabs three pirate groups

A Military Operations news article

17 May 12

HMS Westminster has thwarted the activities of three pirate groups in a fortnight, destroying their boats and means of further action.

A confiscated pirate vessel is fired on by the guns of HMS Westminster [Picture: Crown Copyright/MOD 2012]

In each case the Portsmouth-based warship deployed her Merlin helicopter to send the pirate skiffs to the bottom of the Indian Ocean after pirates on board had tried - but failed - to hijack merchant shipping in the area.

When deployed to the incidents the Merlin helicopter's crew invariably found the small craft crammed with weapons, extra fuel, ladders and more people than you would expect to find for any other purpose - hundreds of miles from land.

On seeing the Merlin, with Royal Marines Commando snipers in the back, not to mention a heavily armoured Type 23 frigate steaming towards them, the suspects began ditching their pirate paraphernalia over the sides of their boats into the depths of the ocean.

#MilitaryMon Moments of Silence #MoS to #HonorTheFallen 14 May 2012 1PM-1:11 ET

"He which hath no stomach to this fight let him depart. But we in it shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother.” (W.Shakespeare) Rest in peace my Brothers, you have not been forgotten.

REQUEST that all afford my Brothers a Moment of Silence each on Monday beginning 1:00 PM, Eastern Time.  REQUEST that each Moment of Silence be dedicated each Monday to my Fallen Brothers in order of notification since prior Monday.  1PM Eastern is Kabul 22:30/10:30PM, Baghdad 20:00/8PM, London 18:00/6PM, San Diego 10AM.  This time accommodates those in London, Baghdad & Kabul as well as Congress and across the United States.

• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1PM to 1:02 EDT: SGT #Bowe #Bergdahl, Kidnapped by Taliban, Two Minutes until he comes home #MIA #SOT #MoS
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:02-1:03 EDT: MSG Gregory L Childs, Warren, AR 05/04/12 Kabul, AFG DLA
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:03-1:04 EDT: Sgt John P Huling, W. Chester, OH 05/06/12 Helmand AFG 7th ESB 1st MarLog
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:04-1:05 EDT: SSG Thomas K Fogarty, Alameda, CA 05/06/12 Ahmad-Kheyl AFG 3-509th PIR 24th ID
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:05-1:06 EDT: 2LT David E Rylander, Stow, OH 05/02/12 Logar AFG 7th Eng Bn 10th MTN Div
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:06-1:07 EDT: SPC Junot ML Cochilus, Charlotte, NC 05/02/12 Logar AFG 7th Eng Bn 10th MTN Div
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:07-1:08 EDT: SGT Jacob M Schwallie, Clarksville, TN 05/07/12 Ghazni AFG 3-73rd ACR 82nd ABN Div
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:08-1:09 EDT: SPC Chase S Marta, Chico, CA 05/07/12 Ghazni AFG 3-73rd ACR 82nd ABN Div
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:09-1:10 EDT: PFC Dustin D Gross, Jeffersonville, KY 05/07/12 Ghazni AFG 3-73rd ACR 82nd ABN Div
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:10-1:11 EDT: PO2 Jorge L Velasquez, Houston, TX May2012 Manama, Bahrain TF56 5th Fleet

 

 

Republication WITHOUT attribution of Moments of Silence is encouraged.  Tailoring quotes and tribute video is encouraged but not required, though it is requested that the times and names be maintained intact.  Each moment is tailored to meet twitter norms and to be tweeted at that time, Each Monday, based on order of notification.

RIP PO2 Jorge L Velasquez

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Sailor who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

Petty Officer Second Class Jorge Luis Velasquez, 35, of Houston, died as a result of a non-combat related incident in Manama, Bahrain. Velasquez was assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 56 in Bahrain, which conducts maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

"He which hath no stomach to this fight let him depart. But we in it shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother.” (W.Shakespeare) Rest in peace my Brothers, you have not been forgotten.

HMS Westminster makes huge drugs haul

A Military Operations news article

17 Apr 12

£14m worth of drugs have been seized by HMS Westminster in the Indian Ocean.

HMS Westminster's Merlin helicopter hovers over the dhow found to have over 70 bales of pure heroin on board [Picture: Crown Copyright/MOD 2012]

The Portsmouth-based warship intercepted a suspicious dhow in the Indian Ocean, seizing over 70 bales containing more than 180kg of pure heroin.

The discovery of the drugs occurred when HMS Westminster's Merlin helicopter and combined Royal Marines and Royal Navy boarding teams received orders to search for, intercept and board a suspicious vessel.

They did, and found more than 70 bales of pure heroin, weighing more than 180kg (nearly 400lbs), on the dhow; it is estimated that the drugs have a street value of US $22m - almost £14m.

HMS Westminster is operating under the banner of Combined Task Force 150, one of three task forces co-ordinated by the international Combined Maritime Forces, with the aim of defeating terrorism, preventing piracy, stopping the illegal trafficking of people and drugs, and promoting the maritime environment as a safe place for mariners with legitimate business.

Somali Pirates Free Crew of MV Fairchem Bogey

Indian shipping officials say all 21 Indian crew members of a chemical oil tanker held hostage by Somali pirates since August have been released.

An Indian shipping spokesman said late Saturday the crew and the ship, the MV Fairchem Bogey, are heading towards a safe port.  He did not give any details of the release, including whether a ransom was paid.

The Marshall Islands-flagged vessel was hijacked August 20 when it was anchored at Salalah port in Oman.

Pirate attack on the EU NAVFOR Flagship SPS PATINO

The group of suspect pirates made their attack while the Flagship was in the vicinity of Mogadishu following the escort of a World Food Programme ship carrying food-aid into Somalia.

Suspected pirates surrender
Photo Courtesy of European Union Naval Force Somalia - Operation Atalanta

They attempted to climb onboard having fired

Somali Pirates Release 15 Sailors

Georgian officials say Somalia pirates have freed 15 crew members of a cargo ship seized more than a year ago.

The officials gave no details of the release and did not say if a ransom was paid. They say the freed hostages are in satisfactory condition.

The Somali pirates hijacked the Maltese-flagged ship in the Gulf of Aden on September 8, 2010. Three Turkish sailors were also on board, but the Georgian officials did not say if the Turks were also freed.

USS Pinckney Disrupts Piracy

12/21/2011 By Ensign Elizabeth Kandt, USS Pinckney Public Affairs

USS PINCKNEY, Gulf of Aden (NNS) -- Guided-missile destroyer USS Pinckney (DDG 91), assigned to Combined Task Force (CTF) 151, disrupted a group of suspected pirates close to the Internationally Recommended Transit Corridor (IRTC), south of Yemen, Dec. 19.

The Merchant Shipping Industry Best Management Practices, Version 4 (BMPv4) encourages merchant vessels to register with the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Organization (UKMTO) while transiting areas known to be high risk for piracy.

GULF OF ADEN (Dec. 19, 2011) A visit, board, search and seizure team from the guided-missile destroyer USS Pinckney (DDG 91) approaches a suspected pirate vessel after the Motor Vessel Nordic Apollo reported being under attack and fired upon by pirates. Pinckney is assigned to Combined Task Force 151, a multinational, mission-based task force working under Combined Maritime Forces to conduct counter-piracy operations in the Southern Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Somali Basin, Arabian Sea, and Indian Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo/Released)

At approximately 8:40 a.m., the Motor Vessel (M/V) Nordic Apollo reported to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Organization (UKMTO) they were under attack and been fired upon by pirates from a skiff.

Having registered their route with UKMTO in accordance with BMPv4, Nordic Apollo's position was relayed to counter-piracy forces operating in the region.

At approximately 11:00 a.m., the M/V Heather, operating 30 nautical miles from Nordic Apollo, reported suspicious activity by a skiff.

Pakistan Navy Rear Adm. Kaleem Shaukat, CTF 151's commander, authorized Pinckney to investigate.

Nordic Apollo confirmed the pirate attack, but stated they no longer had sight of the skiff. In response to the distress call, Pinckney made best speed to the area, issued a radio warning to other vessels in the vicinity, and launched its MH-60R helicopter.

The helicopter crew successfully tracked and located the skiff, observing nine suspected pirates and pirate paraphernalia on board, including several ladders, weapons and fuel containers. The suspected pirates were seen attempting to cover their weapons with blankets and throwing the ladders overboard as Pinckney closed their position.

Intercepted by the helicopter and Pinckney, the skiff stopped and the suspected pirates threw their weapons, identified as five AK-47 rifles, one rocket propelled grenade (RPG) launcher and three RPG rounds, overboard.

Pinckney was given authorization to conduct a boarding using their visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team and once aboard, the VBSS team confirmed there were nine suspected pirates, one grappling hook, 36 barrels of fuel, and 75 and 45 horsepower outboard engines. The VBSS team scuttled one outboard motor and left the skiff with enough fuel and water to return back to shore.

Cmdr. Matthew M. McGonigle, Pinckney's commanding officer, praised the crew for their efforts.

"My crew responded in an exceptional reaction time and with complete professionalism. With the helicopter in the air, acting in conjunction with the ship, we were able to have full coverage of the situation and stop them carrying out any further illegal activities.

"The operation was carried out in accordance with our pre-rehearsed responses to such an event, and I am very proud of the Pinckney's crew and all those involved."

Piracy is a threat to the security of all nations and requires an international solution. The presence of coalition navy vessels in the region demonstrates a commitment to regional security and stability. To continue to counter and deter piracy successfully, coalition efforts must be complimented by proactive measures by commercial shippers, regional governments, and the international community.

Pinckney is assigned to Combined Task Force 151, a multi-national, mission-based task force working under Combined Maritime Forces, to conduct counter-piracy operations in the Southern Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Somali Basin, Arabian Sea, and Indian Ocean.

 

(c) USN

 

USS Carney Disrupts Pirate Attack in Gulf of Aden

From U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Public Affairs

USS CARNEY, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Carney (DDG 64), part of NATO's counter-piracy task force Operation Ocean Shield, worked with other NATO forces and coalition partners to disrupt pirate activity in the Gulf of Aden, Dec. 5.

(April  2007) - The guided missile destroyer USS Carney (DDG 64) underway in the Caribbean during a training exercise. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Vincent J. Street (RELEASED)

A Japanese maritime patrol aircraft patrolling the area on counter-piracy operations spotted a suspicious skiff with seven suspected pirates aboard and contacted the NATO flagship ITS Andrea Doria who in turn tasked Carney to investigate.

In a coordinated operation, Carney approached the skiff, while the patrol aircraft circled overhead. As the warship appeared on the horizon the skiff attempted to flee however it stopped when hailed.

Royal Navy: 1, Pirates: 0

Royal Navy saves Spanish vessel from pirate attack

A Military Operations news article

2 Dec 11

The Royal Navy has come to the aid of a Spanish fishing vessel under pirate attack in the Indian Ocean this week.

The pirate whaler being searched by the Royal Marines boarding team from RFA Fort Victoria, visible in the background  [Picture: LA(Phot) Dave Jenkins, Crown Copyright/MOD 2011]

On Monday, 28 November 2011, Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) vessel Fort Victoria was patrolling in an area approximately 420 nautical miles (780km) from the Seychelles and 350 nautical miles (650km) from the Somali coast as part of NATO's Combined Task Force 508.

Early that morning, she received information that a Spanish fishing vessel operating to the north of their position had come under attack from a group of pirate vessels. The ship's Lynx helicopter was quickly despatched to investigate.

Somali Pirates Reportedly Trade Ransom for Italian Ship

An Italian shipping company and Italian media say Somali pirates have released an Italian merchant ship and its crew seized seven months ago.

The MV Rosalia D'Amato had been sailing from Brazil to Iran with a cargo of soybeans when pirates commandeered the boat April 21 in the Arabian Sea, off the coast of Oman.

The boat's operator, Naples-based Perseveranza Navigazione, says the crew appears to be well.

Italy's La Repubblica newspaper reports that a ransom was paid for the release of the ship and its 22 crew members.

In the past, pirates have hijacked ships and anchored them off the Somali coast until a ransom was paid.

Somali pirates are currently believed to be holding at least ten ships and and more than 240 crew members hostage. VoA

Royal Navy strikes another blow against pirates

Navy strikes third major blow in a week against pirates. 20/10/2011

A suspected pirate mother ship has been stopped by the Royal Navy in the third blow dealt to pirates in the past week by UK forces. The dhow - thought to be the launchpad for last week's attack on an Italian cargo ship - was stopped by the combined efforts of HMS Somerset, RFA Fort Victoria, Royal Marines Commandos and a Merlin helicopter from 829 Naval Air Squadron some 200 miles off Somalia.

A burst of fire sends fountains of water shooting up from the Indian Ocean as another show of overwhelming force from the Royal Navy forces suspected pirates to stop.

This is the moment a pirate mother ship – thought to be behind last week’s attack on an Italian cargo ship – is halted in the third blow in a week dealt to Somali pirates by UK forces.

Royal Navy frees fishermen from suspected Somali pirates

A Military Operations news article

18 Oct 11

A boarding team from HMS Somerset has liberated a large fishing dhow, which had been taken over by a group of armed Somalis a few days earlier, over 100 miles (160km) off the coast of Somalia.

 

Royal Navy Type 23 frigate HMS Somerset approaches a pirated dhow off the Horn of Africa
[Picture: Leading Airman (Photographer) Abbie Gadd, Crown Copyright/MOD 2011]

It is a well-practised tactic for suspected pirates to capture such a vessel as a 'mother ship' and then use it for many months to conduct illegal activity. This gives criminals a greater range over which to commit their crimes, a fate that often confronts pirated dhow crews.

This dhow's crew were later set free by the Royal Navy.

HMS Somerset, whilst conducting routine counter-terrorism patrols for the Combined Maritime Forces, was alerted to the 100-tonne Jelbut fishing dhow, the 'Hibib Fidi', when it was found not to be acting in the usual manner for a fishing vessel.

Royal Navy frees hostages from pirates in Indian Ocean

A Military Operations news article

12 Oct 11

Two dozen merchant sailors have been freed from a hijacked ship in the Indian Ocean this week, thanks to a Royal Navy and Royal Marines boarding team.

 

A Royal Navy and Royal Marines team carrries out a compliant boarding of the MV Montecristo
[Picture: Crown Copyright/MOD 2011]

 

A specialist boarding party from Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) vessel Fort Victoria, engaged in NATO counter-piracy operations east of Suez, freed 23 crew members of a hijacked Italian cargo ship this week.

The crew of the 56,000-tonne merchantman MV Montecristo spent 24 hours holed up in the engine room where they retreated after pirates stormed their ship some 200 miles (320km) south east of the coast of Oman in the Indian Ocean.

Pirates Hi-Jack 19th Ship off West Africa

Pirates have hijacked a ship with 23 crew members in the Gulf of Guinea, which has become an increasingly dangerous area for international shipping.

The International Maritime Bureau says the pirates seized the Cypriot-flagged tanker Wednesday about 115 kilometers southwest of Cotonou, the capital of the West African nation of Benin.

The bureau's Piracy Reporting Center says armed pirates boarded the ship, took the crew hostage, and sailed off towards an unknown location. The nationalities of the crew are unknown.

The center says pirates boarded a Norwegian-flagged ship in the same area, but failed to seize control after the crew members locked themselves in the engine room.

Experts have warned that pirate attacks are increasing off the coast of West Africa, mainly near Benin. They say there have been 19 acts of piracy off Benin so far this year, compared with none in 2010.

The experts note that pirates off West Africa tend to attack ships for their cargo while pirates from East Africa, usually Somalia, hold the crews for ransom

The International Maritime Bureau says there have been more than 320 pirate attacks worldwide this year and at least 33 hijackings. Most of the attacks happen near Somalia.

Moments of Silence #MoS to #HonorTheFallen 12 SEP 2011 1PM-1:15ET

He which hath no stomach to this fight let him depart. But we in it shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother.” (W.Shakespeare)  Rest in peace my Brothers, you have not been forgotten. 

REQUEST that all afford my Brothers a Moment of Silence each on Monday beginning 1:00 PM, Eastern Time.  REQUEST that each Moment of Silence be dedicated each Monday to my Fallen Brothers in order of notification since prior Monday.  1PM Eastern is Kabul 22:30/10:30PM, Baghdad 20:00/8PM, London 18:00/6PM, San Diego 10AM.  This time accommodates those in London, Baghdad & Kabul as well as Congress and across the United States.

• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1PM to 1:02 EDT: SGT #Bowe Bergdahl, Kidnapped by Taliban, Two Minutes until he comes home #MIA #SOT #MoS
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:02-1:03 EDT: SPC Christopher J  Scott, Tyrone, NY 09/03/11 Kandahar, AFG 716th MP Bde 101st AA Div
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:03-1:04 EDT: CPL Brandon Shepherd, Canada 09//11 Kabul AFG Dragoons, RCA 
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:04-1:05 EDT: PFC Christophe J Marquis, Tampa, FL 09/04/11 Kandahar, AFG 1-5 Inf Rgt 25th ID
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:05-1:06 EDT: Civ James W Coker, Mount Pleasant SC09/05/11 Kabul AFG USACE, NFEC-A
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:06-1:07 EDT: SPC Kevin R Shumaker, Livermore, CA 08/31/11 US 2nd BCT 10th MTN Div
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:07-1:08 EDT: Cmdr James K Crawford, East Concord NY 09/07/11 Bahrain, USN CentCom
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:08-1:09 EDT: SPC Koran P Contreras, Lawndale, CA 09/08/11 Kandahar AFG 2-87th Inf Rgt 10th MTN Div
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:09-1:10 EDT: PFC Douglas J Jeffries, Springville, CA 09/08/11 Kandahar AFG 2-87th Inf Rgt 10th MTN Div
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:10-1:11 EDT: SGT Bret D Isenhower, Lamar, OK 09/09/11 Paktika, AFG 1-279th Inf Rgt 45th BCT
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:11-1:12 EDT: SPC Christopher D Horton, Collinsville, OK 09/09/11 Paktika, AFG 1-279th Inf Rgt 45th BCT
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:12-1:13 EDT: PFC Tony J Potter, Okmulgee, OK 09/09/11 Paktika, AFG 1-279th Inf Rgt 45th BCT
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:13-1:14 EDT: PO Brian K Lundy, Austin, TX 09/09/11 1-6th MarRgt 2nd MarDiv
• #MoS #MilitaryMon 1:14-1:15 EDT: Knsb Jacob S L Olsen, Denmark 09/03/11 Helmand, AFG B Co Danish Army

  

Republication of Moments of Silence WITHOUT attribution is encouraged.  Tailoring quotes and tribute video is encouraged but not required, though it is requested that the times and names be maintained intact.  Each moment is tailored to meet twitter norms and to be tweeted at that time, Each Monday, based on order of notification.

RIP CMDR James K Crawford

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a sailor who was supporting Operation New Dawn.

Cmdr. James K. Crawford, 50, of East Concord, N.Y., died Sept. 7, as a result of a non-combat related incident in Manama, Bahrain.  Crawford was assigned to U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, supporting operations at the Combined Maritime Forces Coalition Coordination Center at Naval Support Activity, Bahrain.

An investigation is in progress.

"He which hath no stomach to this fight let him depart. But we in it shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother.” (W.Shakespeare)  Rest in peace my Brothers, you have not been forgotten.

Danish Family Released by Somali Pirates

Somali pirates have released a Danish family of five and two Danish crew members who were seized while sailing around the world more than six months ago.

In a statement Wednesday, the Danish foreign ministry said the freed hostages were safe and doing well under the circumstances. The statement did not indicate if a ransom was paid in exchange for their release.

Somali pirates captured the Danes on February 24, as they were sailing their yacht in the Indian Ocean.

Pirates Hijack Indian ship in Omani Waters

Somali pirates have hijacked a ship with 21 Indian crew members near a port in Oman.

Indian and Omani officials say pirates boarded and seized control of the MV Fairchem Bogey on Saturday while it was anchored a few kilometers off the port of Salalah. The ship is now reported to be headed toward Somalia.

The ship's manager, Mumbai-based Anglo Eastern Ship Management, says the Omani Coast Guard approached the vessel after it was hijacked, but backed off after pirates warned of possible harm to the crew. The company says it appears all crew members are safe with no injuries.

Somali pirates frequently attack and hijack ships near Oman. The pirates have ventured farther and farther from the coast of Somalia to avoid international naval patrols in the Gulf of Aden and the western Indian Ocean.

Virginia Court Sentences 2 Somali Pirates to Life for Murder

VoA News: A U.S. court has sentenced two Somali pirates to life in prison for killing four American hostages after hijacking their yacht off the coast of Oman earlier this year.

Officials in Norfolk, Virginia announced the sentences Monday in the case of 30-year-old Ali Abdi Mohamed and 31-year-old Burhan Abdirahman Yusuf.  The two Somalis had pled guilty to piracy, which carries a mandatory life sentence.  Officials also say nine co-conspirators have also entered guilty pleas and will be sentenced in the coming weeks.

Authorities said in a statement that Mohamed and Yusuf were among 19 Somalis who willingly conspired to sail the high seas in search of a vessel to seize and hold for ransom.  They say the men anticipated receiving a percentage of whatever ransom they received after paying about a third of that money to the operation's financier.

Ship Insurers Designate Benin As High-Risk Area

9 August 2011 VOA News The shipping insurance industry has added Benin to a list of areas deemed “high risk” because of increasing piracy.

Pirates recently hijacked several vessels in the Gulf of Guinea off Benin, including at least two oil tankers.

Somalia: Pirates Release UAE-Flagged Ship, Crew

VOA News July 28 2011

Somali pirates have releaseda United Arab Emirates-flagged oil tanker and its crew just weeks after capturing the vessel in the Indian Ocean.

The MT Jubba XX was seized on July 16 while travelling from the UAE to the port of Berbera in the breakaway northern Somali region of Somaliland.

It was released Thursday after negotiations between the pirates, local officials and businessmen. The amount of ransom paid was unclear.

USS Anzio Disrupts Pirate Activity

7/26/2011

From Combined Maritime Forces Public Affairs

USS ANZIO, At Sea (NNS) -- Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) warship USS Anzio (CG 68), assigned as the CMF's counter-piracy mission Combined Task Force (CTF) 151 flagship, intercepted a skiff July 22, successfully disrupting the activities of a group suspected of attempting acts of piracy.

USS Anzio first heard of the suspected pirate activity after receiving a report from a merchant vessel that it had been attacked, including being fired upon, by suspected pirates in a skiff.

GULF OF ADEN (July 22, 2011) Members of a visit, board, search, and seizure team from the guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio (CG 68), in background, intercept a skiff containing a group of suspected pirates. Anzio is supporting Combined Task Force (CTF) 151, a multi-national, mission-based task force established by the Combined Maritime Forces in January 2009 to conduct counter-piracy operations in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Somali Basin and Arabian Sea. This is the highest resolution file currently available. (Combined Maritime Forces photo/Released)

It was reported the suspected pirates were armed with a rocket propelled grenade launcher and AK-47 assault rifles, and the attack had been unsuccessful.

"This large merchant vessel avoided being pirated through adherence to 'best management practices' which is another reminder of how effective these practical precautions are," said Royal New Zealand Navy Capt. James Gilmour, commander, CTF 151.

Italian Diesel Tanker Pirated off WEST Africa

Italian Tanker Hijacked Off West Africa

VoA News: Pirates in the Gulf of Guinea have hijacked an Italian fuel tanker with 23 crew members on board.  The Italian news agency ANSA reports that three pirates seized control of the RBD Anema e Core on Sunday.  It says the ship was carrying a cargo of diesel fuel and that the ship's crew consists of 20 Filipinos, two Italians, and a Romanian captain.

Italy's foreign ministry says its crisis unit is following the situation, and is in contact with the ship's owner, based in the Italian city of Naples.  Pirates in the Gulf of Guinea off West Africa's southern coast have become increasingly active in recent months.

Two Greek-operated tankers were recently seized in the area, one on June 16 and the other on July 16.  Last month, the International Maritime Bureau issued a piracy warning for ships traveling near the country of Benin.

Greek Oil Tanker, Aegean Star, Hijacked Off Nigeria

19 July 2011 VOA News Greek maritime officials say pirates have seized a Greek-run oil tanker off the coast of Nigeria.

Officials said Monday that the Aegean Star and its 20-member crew were hijacked on Saturday.

They say the ship was carrying oil from Ghana to Benin when it was seized 55 kilometers off the Nigerian coast, in the Gulf of Guinea.

MV JUBBA XX Oil Tanker Hijacked by Somali Pirates

MV JUBBA XX PIRATED IN THE NORTHERN INDIAN OCEAN

Late on the morning of 16 July, it was reported by the owners that the MV JUBBA XX, a laden tanker, had been pirated in the northern Indian Ocean, on her regular route from the United Arab Emirates to the port of Berbera, Somalia.

On the morning of 17 July, the vessel was located by a Maritime Patrol aircraft 100 nautical miles north-west of Socotra Island, heading to the northern Somali coast. Little information is available at present but it is reported that 9 suspected Somali pirates are on board MV JUBBA XX. 

The MV JUBBA XX is a UAE owned and flagged oil tanker, deadweight of 4831 tonnes, with a crew of 16 (1 Sri Lankan, 5 Indian,  3 Bangladesh, 1 Sudanese, 1 Myanmar, 1 Kenyan and 4 Somali). There is no information on the condition of the crew and the vessel was not registered with MSCHOA at the time of the pirating. EUNAVFOR continues to monitor the situation. 

EUNAVFOR Somalia – Operation ATALANTA’s main tasks are to escort merchant vessels carrying humanitarian aid of the World Food Program (WFP) and vessels of African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM). EUNAVFOR also protects vulnerable vessels in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean, deters and disrupts piracy and monitors fishing activity off the coast of Somalia.

Source: EUNAVFOR

Somali Pirates Demand Money for Dead Pirates

Somali Pirates Demand Compensation from South Korea

VoA News: A South Korean captain who is being held by Somali pirates says his captors are demanding that the South Korean government pay them compensation for pirates killed by its navy.

Captain Pak Hyeon contacted VOA by phone Friday, saying the pirates want Seoul to pay compensation for eight dead comrades and release another five held prisoner. He said the pirates have not named a price.

There was no immediate response by the South Korean government to those demands.

18 Somali Pirates Detained in India

June 27 2011 VOA News Police in western India have detained 18 suspected Somali pirates, the second batch of pirates captured in the same area this month.

Police say they took the 18 suspects into custody late Sunday, after their disabled boat drifted ashore in Gujarat state, in the temple town of Dwarka.

Three other people on board were believed to be hostages.

Somalia Pardons Foreigners; Keeps Ransom Money

Somalia Pardons Foreigners Arrested With Pirate Ransom

VoA News: Somalia's president has pardoned six foreigners who were convicted of bringing millions of dollars intended for pirate ransom into the country.

A Somali government spokesman indicated Sunday that the six men will be released shortly, following the pardon from President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed.

Authorities detained the three British nationals, two Kenyans, and one American in Mogadishu last month after they arrived in two planes carrying a reported $3.6 million in cash.

Two of the men were sentenced to 15 years in prison, while the others were given 10-year sentences.

Reuters news agency reports that the men will be allowed to leave Somalia with the planes but that the government will keep the ransom money.

The Somali government has done little to stop pirate gangs who prey on shipping near Somalia's coast but officially discourages the paying of ransoms.

The pirates have made hundreds of millions of dollars hijacking ships for ransom over the past few years.