Simolia pirates seem to have a lucrative business going on. If companies vessels are being taken for ransoms because of the route then go another way, yes it takes longer and more money but if they still have to pay the ransom it comes out cheaper. Are far as private yachts these the people know the waters thier in. I know it should not be like this but that is how life is the the World. The "U.S.A. she's not perfect but she is the Best!" People need to remember this when they feel like life has short change them.
I have this uncontrollable urge to scream "Why can't we just throw caution to the wind and go kick some Somali pirate butt!?"
It amazes me that such a small group of people can overtake huge vessels and kidnap innocent people. They certainly aren't armed like our forces. What floors me even more, is that people are paying their ransoms! I mean, tens of millions of dollars in the past several years? That certainly goes a long way in a poor community.
I am so happy to see this couple has been released, but there are so many other that are still being held captive. Is everyone really doing everything they can to release these people? I'm not seeing it. Only because it sounds like the rise of the Somali pirates has escalated in the past year.
I have a huge problem with this article and it really isn't about the pirates. The way this article is making the couple out to be is wrong. They should not be happy and smiling in the same country that they were held in. Also saying that the gentleman was taking pictures in the air port? I understand being happy to be alive and free and everything but after what they have been through, where is the stress and depression that usually is seen in victims of crimes? If I was ever taking hostage for a year and finally got released, I would not be doing anything with that government, I would take the first flight out to see my family right away. I surely would not be smiling around like I was a celebrity and taking pictures. I think that the article could of done a better job at showing that they were victims of a very big wrong and yes they should be grateful for everyone that helped get them out and to be free but at the same time, something that traumatic just doesn't go away. The article just seems like that are making the situation all sunshine and rainbows instead of "hey this is a problem" type thing.
I've got to agree with Leanne on this one. I just don't understand how these small groups of pirates can take over some of these massive vessels. I get how they over power the private yachts but it just doesn't seem right that these pirates are taking over the seas. Why aren't there more forces and security out there if they know the dangers of these routes? To think of all the money they receive from these ransoms that are being paid just baffles me. Like the article states they are going out and buying more guns, fancy cars, and women! Ugh!
As far as the couple, I'm glad to hear of their release. It will take time to heal and accept what they just went through for the past year. Although they are all smiles now, I believe they will need counseling and attention over the next several years.
This is such an amazing story to read.. Overall I have the feeling of relief but then again anger. The fact that these individuals were taken and held hostage for such a long time is hard to even image. Specially at their age I find it difficult for these individuals to of lasted long under the pirates living conditions and tortures. But why is more not being done to prevent the pirate attacks that obviously continue to occur. It is stated in the article that these individuals are known for their flashy possessions throughout the country of Somali therefore why are these individuals not being monitored more closely? These pirates are making millions of dollars off of innocent people and yet they are only continuing to get richer. It is understood that the country of Somali more than likely has a less than equivalent criminal justice system in comparison to that of most countries... so why hasn't there been any discussion in improvement? Also the fact they are not educated enough on how to even approach the situation in order to minimize the pirates control is possibly another issue to take into consideration. It is possible that neighboring countries or allied countries could help suppress this issue?? Either way it is clear that more is efforts are needed to be done in order to suppress this type of criminal activity. Pirates should not have so much control over the seas as well as the country of Somali being that they are able to manipulate the situation by always paying an extremely large ransom amount.
This issue just infuriates me and is one that was discussed in Gangster class. I just want all governments who have a stake in these waters to band together and start a specialized task force to put an end to this. I had also posed that the cargo shipping companies train and arm all their people who are on the ship. I understand that that would be difficult and costly, but so is the loss of cargo and human life. I realize it is not politically correct for me to express, but I will say it anyway because its my blog response. I feel an end could be put to this if the government entities involved would drop the human rights issues and just start getting rid of these pirates. Just capture them in the middle of their attempts and drop them in the waters they are terrorizing and don't look back. Pretty soon the word would get out as to what the punishment is and the recruitment efforts would end. Sorry, but not everything can be dealt with with proper protacol.
I know that I am radical but stop paying the ransoms!! I read in one that the cargo ship company paid them 3 million dollars! The International Maritime Bureau Piracy Reporting Centre (IBM PRC) publishes a weekly piracy report, and encourages mariners to report attempted boarding attempts and suspicious crafts. The IBM also recommends the installing an electrical fence to prevent boarding called “Secure-Ship” which uses a 9,000 volt pulse to deter the pirates. Ouch!! Secure-Marine is the manufacture of the Secure-Ship protection system, and they make claims of preventing robberies, preventing stowaways, and they have an option of a silent message signaling device which signals the IMB PRC.
Ok you know there is a reason that the US has a no negotiation policy in hostage situations for a reason. If people will stop paying them they will find other ways to "earn" their money. The problem is that the shipping companies will not reroute their ships because it would cost them to much, because it would take longer for the shipments to arrive.
I agree that they partraied the victims in a bad light, they showed them happy and cleaned up, can you honestly tell me that their captures allowed them to be like this, are they trying to make it look like the pirates provided human treatment to their hostages? I think not.
What interests me about this story and similarily with other stories ivolving hostage situations is the issue of where the money comes from to free these hostages. In my opinion, the British Government must have contributed in some way towards the release of the Chandlers, most likely by paying the ransom demanded by the Somali pirates, despite the British foreign office's insistence that they never pay ransom to hostage takers. This is wrong, and I don't agree that a ransom should have been paid. Not wanting to sound like I'm against the release of the Chandlers who more than likely went through a psychologically damaging ordeal. But paying such a ransom only fuels the greed that is engrained in these pirates and what drives their "business" to be successful. These pirates are more than likely not going to kill their hostages sure; but they are also aware that Governments are not going to leave a delicate situation left unresolved. In other words, these pirates know they will benefit in one way or another from hostage takings, and will not stop in doing so unless action is taken to PREVENT such events occuring. Problem prevention over problem solving will lead to the dissolving of such piracy in the long term rather than a solution, i.e. a ransom, that only fuels continuing of such behaviour.
Pirates, I remember them from childhood stories and fairy tails. I never considered them to be real, and for them to be as dangerous as they are. Taking a poor retired couple hostage for ransom is sick. It is a shame that they capture people like it is a game, and they try to make money off of their lives. I can not fathom being held captive for over a year, even if I was with my husband, I still would not feel safe. Both of them are very luck to be alive and to still have each other. I just do not understand how other countries can allow things like this to happen. However, their pirates are probably like gangs to us, we try to stop them but we can not completely because of how many there are. There should still be some type of prevention that could possible minimize the capturing of other people. I know the couples families really missed them and thought they were not going to see them again. People can be so heartless when it comes to others; they seem to think that money is the most valuable thing in the world. Pirates probably feel powerful because of their name, it is epic and people know what it means. It is intimidating and they use that to their advantage.
Well I am glad to see that this couple was finally freed and unharmed but it just really surprises me how much power these pirates have. This couple was held captive for 388 days, which is just ridiculous. I just do not understand what right they had to board their yacht and hold them all this time, I mean what was the purpose behind them doing that? The other thing that is bothering me is that nobody is paying for holding them all this time, it's basically like the pirates are getting away with the crime that they committed. I believe that the reason they have held this couple all this time is because they want to show that they can get away and have been getting away with all types of crimes. I also believe that this type of behavior by the pirates will continue until somebody steps up and put them in their place.....
When I think of Somalia it brings the movie “Blackhawk Down” to mind. The Army Rangers and Delta Force had a tough time there. This is a country where life is cheap and it’s dog eat dog. I bet whole towns are working and profiting from the pirates. The international Navies need to take some small yachts and use them for bait, like the different police agencies use bait cars to catch car thieves. When they Somali pirates try to seize the yacht used for bait, they need to be blown out of the water.
A couple was kidnapped and then released after 388 days. So let me get this straight the pirates not only take individuals but the vehicle and the cargo? Are there no tracking devises? Are we dealing with terrorist? Can we not triangulate their position? How can we not find cargo ships? Where have the pirates boarded the most boats at, should there be more measures being taken besides negotiation (after it is too late)? Somali is indorsing piracy; forget about paying the ransom how about investing in a task force to find the location of the ships, holding cells, and the brains of the investigation. Somalia has been without a functioning government since clan-based warlords toppled dictator Mohamed Siad Barre in 1991, again you see it’s not the people of the states fault the blame goes to those in power (dictatorship).Trivera if the people with flashy goods were to be monitored closely they could argue racial profile and besides that the fact that the Somilian government is aware of these facts that may suggest something; such as corrupt individuals with the Somilian law enforcement and officials. I am very excited that Chandler family survived the pirates and happy for them that they are able to see their family again. Giovanni Monsanto
The last statement states clearly to the root of this problem, "Somalia has been without a functioning government since clan-based warlords toppled dictator Mohamed Siad Barre in 1991". A previous article I comment all is just another reflection of a country sole purpose of survival and financial means are to allow such individual to terrorized individuals in their waters. It is truly a blessing that these couples live to see another day and sad to know that you can not enjoy life so freely without some encounters of ignorance. It is probably easy for me to say why have not the government of these neighboring countries provide some form of naval security in these waters and air surveillance. From reading this article it seem like everybody want to be in the paper or news article reaching out and showing their disagreement to the incident but not once again were there mention of any counter measures to these type of event. It will continue over and over..imaging the cases that have been unreported and lives loss. I support do whatever it takes to protect yourself, family, and property that includes deadly force if it comes down to it.
Wow what an amazing story of survival. It is hard to imagine all the trials and tribulations that they faced during that year. It is a shame that people can not relax and be safe anywhere, not even at sea. Those pirates are terrorists and sicken me. I don’t understand why these pirates even exist. Their government should be doing something about this. They are extortionists. I understand that the government is weak but something must be done. This article is the first I have even heard of this story. I have seen broadcasts about the pirates over there but never about them having a hostage for so long. These victims are not young and at their prime time in life, be retired, they had to go through such a horrible ideal. Pirates, terrorists, whatever you want to call them, should not be given so much “power”. Letting them exists and get smarter at what they do will only continue to be a burden.
This is pretty interesting. When we talk about pirates nowadays, everyone seems to think about Pirates of the Carribean the movie. Not many people believe that there really are pirates still roaming the seas. I can only imagine what it's like to be held hostage for a year. A year! Thats a long time and these couple come out of it smiling and just happy to be alive. It amazes me what these pirates can do and what they are capable of.
I think that this paticular story has a great ending. I am so happy that this couple got relesed and are able to return home to their loved ones. I does sadden me though, they said that over 500 people are kidnapped and want ransom money for like $1 million dollars. Who seriously has that kind of money? I can't imagine anything worse then being taken and kept hostage. You see all kinds of movies that involve kidnapping scenes, but when you stop and think what it would actually be like its an incredibly scary thought. A year is an incredibly long time to be away from your home.
Liz S. I don’t really understand how these pirates are getting away with this. The vessels are gigantic and they are being taken over by tiny ships. I don’t understand why there is so little being done. The article noted something disturbing. The fact that they are acquiring more guns through the money they receive from ransoms. Surely, there is something more than can be done on this serious situation. As far as the couple that was released, well good for them. I don’t really like the way they advertised the couple being so happy. The couple was happy to be released I get it but the press seemed to not focus on the seriousness of the pirates. The released hostages will need counseling for sure.
Ok.... First things first, the open sea's have ALWAYS had piracy... Since the BEGINNING of naval vessels there has been pirate's. With that being said anyone who ventures out to sea even for a peaceful voyage better be prepared in the event they might encounter pirate's. Second, Pirate take-overs have been charted and documented where each individual case has occurred and which waters are DANGEROUS to sail in. With that being said the individual yachters that make the decision to sail through pirate infested waters are playing with fire and risking their own lives in doing so.
I am not by any means giving righteousness to what the Somali pirate's are doing but this has been going on since the invention of water vessels. It's fantastic that the couple was released, whether or not a ransom was paid or not, we may never know. With Somalia's average yearly income being at or less than $600, being poverty stricken from HELL, and having no apparent government to speak of these people see what they are doing as righteous and they are in some way pouring money into their withering economy. What they are doing is absolutely NOT RIGHT, but in survival to live, they are doing what they deem necessary. Courses of action need to be taken by the companies and ignorant individuals that are contributing to this active behavior. Paying the pirate's ransom for what they are commandeering is only making matters worse and this will continue to happen unless preventative measures are taken.
Somalia has been without a functioning government since clan-based warlords’ toppled dictator Mohamed Siad Barre in 1991. It is because of this the Somali pirates are able to get away with what they are doing. Somalia economy isn’t financially stable, so people try to survive by any means necessary and the pirates are achieving these means even if it is illegal. The pirates see their acts as being just because they are doing what they believe is necessary to try and survive. I agree with Cordell and J Kiss, the people of Somalia sees these pirates as heroes because they are pouring money back into their economy. It’s a blessing that the couple was released but it sucks to know you can’t travel freely and enjoy life due to the actions of ignorant people who believe they are doing something that is right. Hopefully Somalia will seek help in trying to end this because they can’t do it alone.
It's a great thing that the Chandlers were freed from the hostage situation, but they are still one of the many people that Somali pirates take hostage. After a year, this couple was finally released. What does that say about the whole negotiation process? The Somali pirates are known for taking people hostage, and yet no preventive measures have been taken to protect those who want to sail the seas. The main thing that the pirates want is money. The easy way out of that matter is to give them what they ask for. Since no one is really too keen on paying a ransom, why not fund the means of preventive measures. That way, the money that is being spent on ransoms would be spent on preventing hostage situations. How would one rather have that money spent?
This is mind boggling and very disturbing...you have a group of pirates, that sail the sea, capture innocent people and hold them hostage, ask for ransom money, and GET IT?! Like they say in the south, where they do that at?? Are pirates in a certain jurisdiction where they cant be touched? If not, then why is it taking them (govt officials) so long to make a major move and free the hostages on that boat and the vessels? And if the Chandlers dont have income and money set aside like that ($300,000) and they are not important people, then how on earth did they negotiate for their ransom? And what about the remaining 500 hostages that have probably been their longer or are nearly dying onboard? This makes no sense at all, like where did the money come from if the British govt didnt have anything to do with it? They had to have some type of involvement with this case. If they are going to be doing something for this couple then they (govt) need to be doing something for the others as well. Very greatful for this couple to last 13mths on this ship and make it off alive, but the arrangements that were made for their freedom is very troubling and not ligit, and I dont think that's fair to the others. But the money that these pirates are laundrying in, where is it going too? While the govt can use that money and the Somalia country to provide to the less fortunate, you would think that these officials would have thought twice about this choice before making negotiations. As for the vessels, if companies dont want to take the time out and reroute their paths at sea, then they deserve to lose their property at sea. They would save more in taking time out to reroute their paths then to lose all of it as one. And can the military not be able to do something about this? I personally feel that the ransom money should have been held back, UNLESS it was being provided from the family themselves.
A retired couple has been taken hostage by pirates; SICK and SAD! I remember the great stories I use to read way back when I was a child, but I would had never thought they would be real, real and so mean. This clearly what happens there’s no functioning government to take control of situations like this. I am glad the couple made it back home safely
The Pirates must have extremely harsh conditions in their country to go after these vessels that now have protection on them or just extremely driven by greed. Although Greg has brought us proof that because the countries ocean has been used as the dumping grounds for our waste the pirates have been attacking because of that. The Pirates do have some learning to do though. They can continue to attack yachts and risk being captured by the task force for broke vacationers or start being a little more systematic at who and what they are capturing. The pirates may have let them go without the money but I find that highly unlikely. They had them for over a year. They held out for something. If the countries conditions do not get any better the task force is going to succeed very little.
I was under the impression that Somalia was a country with no centralized government, but then in the article it says, "Somali Prime Minister Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed met the couple and said the government was pleased they had been freed. He said the government had exerted every humanly possible effort to bring you back to your loved ones." This would suggest that there is a centralized government, but then it says at the end of the article, "Somalia has been without a functioning government since clan-based warlords toppled dictator Mohamed Siad Barre in 1991". So is there a centralized government or not.
Piracy in Somalia seems to be growing into a big problem. With a nation that is in such disarray and that has been warring with neighboring clans within its borders, it only makes sense that the people who are desperate for a secure living and who are starving from a lack of stability in a warring country, would turn to crime to help them make a living. They highjack boats and kidnapp people for ransom because they are so desperate. However I am not defending criminals or their actions regardless of how desperate they are. To stop this piracy, the United Nations needs to address this topic and have multiple nations commit ships from their navys to patrol the waters around somalia. This issue should be an important one to the UN because of the major trade route from the Gulf of Aiden, through the Red Sea, to the Mediterannean Sea. This means that there are hundreds of ships carrying goods that are at risk. That means millions upon millions of dollars that could be potentially lost, which could affect the economy in a negative way. On top of this, countries as well as business corporations have been paying these huge ransoms, which is adding fuel to the fire. These ransoms are funding the pirates so that they can expand their efforts, making the problem even bigger than what it was.
wow... Being held hostage for a year is absolutely crazy. these people really do want every little cent they can possibly get. these pirates are animals. holding a retired couple for 388 days? the man who gave the money is a hero and the couple is a pair troopers. most people would go insane. what i dont understand is why did the pirates hold on to them for so long. they held on to them for so long to get only half a million dollars? yeah thats a lot of money to me and you but there used to getting millions and one time.
First let me say, damn I wish I could afford a private yacht, and wow a year/388 days. Holy cow! Whatever the government was doing obviously was not working. I get that they were capture a night, but how don’t people feel the boat more or hear sounds? I had the water as it is so I know I would be super cautious if I was on the water. Why have we not created some kind of security system for boat, something that has a loud alarm or something? In class we were shown a GIS mapping of hot spot on the water that show were the pirates like to hang out, I’m curious if that available to the public. They have so many people over there held against their will and not to mention hundreds of boats. Not to sound heartless but could we have a special force unit to just take them all out, I know it not politically right to do. Guess Jeffrey Reiman had it right when he said we are too soft when we punish people. I think is a better idea them trying to negotiate with money, let’s just mow them down and call it a night.
I agree with everyone that thinks the government should STOP falling subject to the pirate's authority by giving into their demands for money. Why do you think they keep hijacking ships and taking hostages? Because they know in the end they will get what they want. They negotiated for over a year with the British couple they held hostage.....WHY would you negotiate with the pirates instead of finding alternative measures to gain control of the ship again? I honestly don't see an ending to the pirate problem as long as the government keeps giving them what they want, which is money. Once you cut off that resource from getting into the pirate's hands, they will have no other choice but to stop.
Pirating pays, is it me or does it seems that every country has a policy that says “we do not negotiate with terrorist” or “we do not pay ransoms to terroristic organizations”? The Chandlers seem to be hard working and law abiding citizens, who retired at an early age, I would also include paid their taxes. For the U.K. to turn their backs on the Chandlers and turn to diplomatic policy is outrageous. Surely the Chandlers having worked all their lives paid more than the ransom price in back taxes to their government. The problem that bothers me is not the fact that they will not negotiate with terrorist, I actually like this policy. The problem that I have is the simple fact that countries are not being aggressive towards these terrorist. Last time I check the U.S. and some other countries in which I think the U.K. declared “War on Terrorism”. Bottom-line, Countries should not tolerate terroristic acts on innocent people. Also to add… I’m opening up an Insurance company who specialize in the protection of pirates policy; it’s called the Pirate Policy. In the Pirate Policy the consumer will pay me over a period of time, the money will be stored just in case pirates take you as a hostage. Like many countries we do not negotiate with terrorist but we will pay them. CAPITALISM
It is just crazy to think that pirates still exist today. It is something you expect to hear in a story. This problem is similar to Africa's rebel group. I agree with mvelazquez682 on this issue. These countries aren't being hard enough on terrorism. Maybe it's because the poor economy of these countries. Either way they must step up to prevent and catch these pirates.
I really think something needs to be done about the Somolian prirates. Pirates! For real, do they still exist? And what a lucrative business. Every time they do this they earn millions. What about our war on terrorism? Can't military intervention be considered? I believe that the African countries need to be a bit more deligent about ending piracy. Must be nice for this couple to have a private yatch and sail the ocean blue, but why put yourself in harms way? Since this piracy problem is becoming larger than life, why can't the United Nations get involved with this and lets all work together to end this nonsense!
here is my question, this is a couple that are retired and don't have the money to pay the ransom. they were help for almost a year, who payed the ranson? which government stepped in and payed up? I say take the french approach and shoot the pirates on site, instead of ours where we give them a ride home. don't take this wrong, actually don't care you know there are pirates in these waters, yet you sail your yacht throught there anyways? is your bravado that strong? or is it stupidity? ships i can understand titi is the only way in or out, private boats can go aroaund or another way.
To respond to Vanessa, the pirates are organized and that is why a small group of them are so successful at what they are doing. It may not seem right that they are taking over our seas, but it's happening and nothing is really being done to stop it. There aren't more forces, because who would be the policing system? Because it sure as hell isn't going to be anyone in the middle east or Africa. No it would go to the UN who would put America as the ever present watch dog to do it. We don't have the capability to do it, our military is already stretched thin enough as it is!
Far more than the loss of wealth and property, the two British hostages in this article lost a full year of life taken by Somali Pirates. While Somali Pirates have become a growing danger to West African waters, there is little that can be done to further prevent this crime from occurring. First and foremost, sailors should steer far from West African waters to prevent their own unfortunate victimization. While the difficulty with policing the waters still remains, the lack of suitable prey will drive off a majority of Somali pirates. In my opinion, the best method of driving of future pirate attacks is to emphasize and support economic growth in West Africa. Many of Africa’s problems are born from vast amounts of poverty and a lack of a suitable economic structure. If we invest in the region we should see a drastic fall in pirate crime because many resort to piracy as a means to feed their families.
Wow, Somalia has not had a functioning government since 1991 so its run by who, the warlords? If there is no functioning government who is looking after the people in that country? Seems barbaric what the Somalians are doing but what other recourse do they have. I agree with what Deavon is saying. Sad that so many people are held hostage though. Not sure what a country's take is on hostages in other countries.
As with traditional gangs they are money hungry and focused on taking from others to support their lifestyle and cause fear while controlling certain areas. This is indicative and characterstic of any gang. I am pleased that this couple is okay. I think something needs to be monitered more effectively because this is becoming a major problem for everyone and quite frankly I am tired of innocent people being overrun by criminals and gangs.
Pirates have been around longer than most give them credit, and now we start hearing about them again (but this time as much more brutal and are at a different level now). I am shocked to see over a year later that hostages are then released. Why were they not killed and why were they kept for so long? I guess taking care of 2 hostages was worth the "money they were waiting on". Due to the governments lack of attention or force, the country will repeatedly run this country based on his owe views. I have not an idea to an "answer" to this problem, although it should be looked into. I wonder how couple was treated and what it was like being held hostage (not that I would want to know first hand though).
Simolia pirates seem to have a lucrative business going on. If companies vessels are being taken for ransoms because of the route then go another way, yes it takes longer and more money but if they still have to pay the ransom it comes out cheaper. Are far as private yachts these the people know the waters thier in. I know it should not be like this but that is how life is the the World. The "U.S.A. she's not perfect but she is the Best!" People need to remember this when they feel like life has short change them.
ReplyDeleteI have this uncontrollable urge to scream "Why can't we just throw caution to the wind and go kick some Somali pirate butt!?"
ReplyDeleteIt amazes me that such a small group of people can overtake huge vessels and kidnap innocent people. They certainly aren't armed like our forces. What floors me even more, is that people are paying their ransoms! I mean, tens of millions of dollars in the past several years? That certainly goes a long way in a poor community.
I am so happy to see this couple has been released, but there are so many other that are still being held captive. Is everyone really doing everything they can to release these people? I'm not seeing it. Only because it sounds like the rise of the Somali pirates has escalated in the past year.
I have a huge problem with this article and it really isn't about the pirates. The way this article is making the couple out to be is wrong. They should not be happy and smiling in the same country that they were held in. Also saying that the gentleman was taking pictures in the air port? I understand being happy to be alive and free and everything but after what they have been through, where is the stress and depression that usually is seen in victims of crimes? If I was ever taking hostage for a year and finally got released, I would not be doing anything with that government, I would take the first flight out to see my family right away. I surely would not be smiling around like I was a celebrity and taking pictures. I think that the article could of done a better job at showing that they were victims of a very big wrong and yes they should be grateful for everyone that helped get them out and to be free but at the same time, something that traumatic just doesn't go away. The article just seems like that are making the situation all sunshine and rainbows instead of "hey this is a problem" type thing.
ReplyDeleteI've got to agree with Leanne on this one. I just don't understand how these small groups of pirates can take over some of these massive vessels. I get how they over power the private yachts but it just doesn't seem right that these pirates are taking over the seas. Why aren't there more forces and security out there if they know the dangers of these routes? To think of all the money they receive from these ransoms that are being paid just baffles me. Like the article states they are going out and buying more guns, fancy cars, and women! Ugh!
ReplyDeleteAs far as the couple, I'm glad to hear of their release. It will take time to heal and accept what they just went through for the past year. Although they are all smiles now, I believe they will need counseling and attention over the next several years.
This is such an amazing story to read.. Overall I have the feeling of relief but then again anger. The fact that these individuals were taken and held hostage for such a long time is hard to even image. Specially at their age I find it difficult for these individuals to of lasted long under the pirates living conditions and tortures. But why is more not being done to prevent the pirate attacks that obviously continue to occur. It is stated in the article that these individuals are known for their flashy possessions throughout the country of Somali therefore why are these individuals not being monitored more closely? These pirates are making millions of dollars off of innocent people and yet they are only continuing to get richer. It is understood that the country of Somali more than likely has a less than equivalent criminal justice system in comparison to that of most countries... so why hasn't there been any discussion in improvement? Also the fact they are not educated enough on how to even approach the situation in order to minimize the pirates control is possibly another issue to take into consideration. It is possible that neighboring countries or allied countries could help suppress this issue?? Either way it is clear that more is efforts are needed to be done in order to suppress this type of criminal activity. Pirates should not have so much control over the seas as well as the country of Somali being that they are able to manipulate the situation by always paying an extremely large ransom amount.
ReplyDeleteThis issue just infuriates me and is one that was discussed in Gangster class. I just want all governments who have a stake in these waters to band together and start a specialized task force to put an end to this. I had also posed that the cargo shipping companies train and arm all their people who are on the ship. I understand that that would be difficult and costly, but so is the loss of cargo and human life. I realize it is not politically correct for me to express, but I will say it anyway because its my blog response. I feel an end could be put to this if the government entities involved would drop the human rights issues and just start getting rid of these pirates. Just capture them in the middle of their attempts and drop them in the waters they are terrorizing and don't look back. Pretty soon the word would get out as to what the punishment is and the recruitment efforts would end. Sorry, but not everything can be dealt with with proper protacol.
ReplyDeleteI know that I am radical but stop paying the ransoms!! I read in one that the cargo ship company paid them 3 million dollars! The International Maritime Bureau Piracy Reporting Centre (IBM PRC) publishes a weekly piracy report, and encourages mariners to report attempted boarding attempts and suspicious crafts. The IBM also recommends the installing an electrical fence to prevent boarding called “Secure-Ship” which uses a 9,000 volt pulse to deter the pirates. Ouch!! Secure-Marine is the manufacture of the Secure-Ship protection system, and they make claims of preventing robberies, preventing stowaways, and they have an option of a silent message signaling device which signals the IMB PRC.
ReplyDeleteOk you know there is a reason that the US has a no negotiation policy in hostage situations for a reason. If people will stop paying them they will find other ways to "earn" their money. The problem is that the shipping companies will not reroute their ships because it would cost them to much, because it would take longer for the shipments to arrive.
ReplyDeleteI agree that they partraied the victims in a bad light, they showed them happy and cleaned up, can you honestly tell me that their captures allowed them to be like this, are they trying to make it look like the pirates provided human treatment to their hostages? I think not.
What interests me about this story and similarily with other stories ivolving hostage situations is the issue of where the money comes from to free these hostages. In my opinion, the British Government must have contributed in some way towards the release of the Chandlers, most likely by paying the ransom demanded by the Somali pirates, despite the British foreign office's insistence that they never pay ransom to hostage takers. This is wrong, and I don't agree that a ransom should have been paid. Not wanting to sound like I'm against the release of the Chandlers who more than likely went through a psychologically damaging ordeal. But paying such a ransom only fuels the greed that is engrained in these pirates and what drives their "business" to be successful. These pirates are more than likely not going to kill their hostages sure; but they are also aware that Governments are not going to leave a delicate situation left unresolved. In other words, these pirates know they will benefit in one way or another from hostage takings, and will not stop in doing so unless action is taken to PREVENT such events occuring. Problem prevention over problem solving will lead to the dissolving of such piracy in the long term rather than a solution, i.e. a ransom, that only fuels continuing of such behaviour.
ReplyDeletePirates, I remember them from childhood stories and fairy tails. I never considered them to be real, and for them to be as dangerous as they are. Taking a poor retired couple hostage for ransom is sick. It is a shame that they capture people like it is a game, and they try to make money off of their lives. I can not fathom being held captive for over a year, even if I was with my husband, I still would not feel safe. Both of them are very luck to be alive and to still have each other. I just do not understand how other countries can allow things like this to happen. However, their pirates are probably like gangs to us, we try to stop them but we can not completely because of how many there are. There should still be some type of prevention that could possible minimize the capturing of other people. I know the couples families really missed them and thought they were not going to see them again. People can be so heartless when it comes to others; they seem to think that money is the most valuable thing in the world. Pirates probably feel powerful because of their name, it is epic and people know what it means. It is intimidating and they use that to their advantage.
ReplyDeleteWell I am glad to see that this couple was finally freed and unharmed but it just really surprises me how much power these pirates have. This couple was held captive for 388 days, which is just ridiculous. I just do not understand what right they had to board their yacht and hold them all this time, I mean what was the purpose behind them doing that? The other thing that is bothering me is that nobody is paying for holding them all this time, it's basically like the pirates are getting away with the crime that they committed. I believe that the reason they have held this couple all this time is because they want to show that they can get away and have been getting away with all types of crimes. I also believe that this type of behavior by the pirates will continue until somebody steps up and put them in their place.....
ReplyDeleteWhen I think of Somalia it brings the movie “Blackhawk Down” to mind. The Army Rangers and Delta Force had a tough time there. This is a country where life is cheap and it’s dog eat dog. I bet whole towns are working and profiting from the pirates. The international Navies need to take some small yachts and use them for bait, like the different police agencies use bait cars to catch car thieves. When they Somali pirates try to seize the yacht used for bait, they need to be blown out of the water.
ReplyDeleteA couple was kidnapped and then released after 388 days. So let me get this straight the pirates not only take individuals but the vehicle and the cargo? Are there no tracking devises? Are we dealing with terrorist? Can we not triangulate their position? How can we not find cargo ships? Where have the pirates boarded the most boats at, should there be more measures being taken besides negotiation (after it is too late)? Somali is indorsing piracy; forget about paying the ransom how about investing in a task force to find the location of the ships, holding cells, and the brains of the investigation. Somalia has been without a functioning government since clan-based warlords toppled dictator Mohamed Siad Barre in 1991, again you see it’s not the people of the states fault the blame goes to those in power (dictatorship).Trivera if the people with flashy goods were to be monitored closely they could argue racial profile and besides that the fact that the Somilian government is aware of these facts that may suggest something; such as corrupt individuals with the Somilian law enforcement and officials. I am very excited that Chandler family survived the pirates and happy for them that they are able to see their family again. Giovanni Monsanto
ReplyDeleteThe last statement states clearly to the root of this problem, "Somalia has been without a functioning government since clan-based warlords toppled dictator Mohamed Siad Barre in 1991". A previous article I comment all is just another reflection of a country sole purpose of survival and financial means are to allow such individual to terrorized individuals in their waters. It is truly a blessing that these couples live to see another day and sad to know that you can not enjoy life so freely without some encounters of ignorance. It is probably easy for me to say why have not the government of these neighboring countries provide some form of naval security in these waters and air surveillance. From reading this article it seem like everybody want to be in the paper or news article reaching out and showing their disagreement to the incident but not once again were there mention of any counter measures to these type of event. It will continue over and over..imaging the cases that have been unreported and lives loss. I support do whatever it takes to protect yourself, family, and property that includes deadly force if it comes down to it.
ReplyDeleteWow what an amazing story of survival. It is hard to imagine all the trials and tribulations that they faced during that year. It is a shame that people can not relax and be safe anywhere, not even at sea. Those pirates are terrorists and sicken me. I don’t understand why these pirates even exist. Their government should be doing something about this. They are extortionists. I understand that the government is weak but something must be done. This article is the first I have even heard of this story. I have seen broadcasts about the pirates over there but never about them having a hostage for so long. These victims are not young and at their prime time in life, be retired, they had to go through such a horrible ideal. Pirates, terrorists, whatever you want to call them, should not be given so much “power”. Letting them exists and get smarter at what they do will only continue to be a burden.
ReplyDeleteThis is pretty interesting. When we talk about pirates nowadays, everyone seems to think about Pirates of the Carribean the movie. Not many people believe that there really are pirates still roaming the seas. I can only imagine what it's like to be held hostage for a year. A year! Thats a long time and these couple come out of it smiling and just happy to be alive.
ReplyDeleteIt amazes me what these pirates can do and what they are capable of.
I think that this paticular story has a great ending. I am so happy that this couple got relesed and are able to return home to their loved ones. I does sadden me though, they said that over 500 people are kidnapped and want ransom money for like $1 million dollars. Who seriously has that kind of money? I can't imagine anything worse then being taken and kept hostage. You see all kinds of movies that involve kidnapping scenes, but when you stop and think what it would actually be like its an incredibly scary thought. A year is an incredibly long time to be away from your home.
ReplyDeleteLiz S.
ReplyDeleteI don’t really understand how these pirates are getting away with this. The vessels are gigantic and they are being taken over by tiny ships. I don’t understand why there is so little being done. The article noted something disturbing. The fact that they are acquiring more guns through the money they receive from ransoms. Surely, there is something more than can be done on this serious situation. As far as the couple that was released, well good for them. I don’t really like the way they advertised the couple being so happy. The couple was happy to be released I get it but the press seemed to not focus on the seriousness of the pirates. The released hostages will need counseling for sure.
Ok.... First things first, the open sea's have ALWAYS had piracy... Since the BEGINNING of naval vessels there has been pirate's. With that being said anyone who ventures out to sea even for a peaceful voyage better be prepared in the event they might encounter pirate's. Second, Pirate take-overs have been charted and documented where each individual case has occurred and which waters are DANGEROUS to sail in. With that being said the individual yachters that make the decision to sail through pirate infested waters are playing with fire and risking their own lives in doing so.
ReplyDeleteI am not by any means giving righteousness to what the Somali pirate's are doing but this has been going on since the invention of water vessels. It's fantastic that the couple was released, whether or not a ransom was paid or not, we may never know. With Somalia's average yearly income being at or less than $600, being poverty stricken from HELL, and having no apparent government to speak of these people see what they are doing as righteous and they are in some way pouring money into their withering economy. What they are doing is absolutely NOT RIGHT, but in survival to live, they are doing what they deem necessary.
Courses of action need to be taken by the companies and ignorant individuals that are contributing to this active behavior. Paying the pirate's ransom for what they are commandeering is only making matters worse and this will continue to happen unless preventative measures are taken.
Somalia has been without a functioning government since clan-based warlords’ toppled dictator Mohamed Siad Barre in 1991. It is because of this the Somali pirates are able to get away with what they are doing. Somalia economy isn’t financially stable, so people try to survive by any means necessary and the pirates are achieving these means even if it is illegal. The pirates see their acts as being just because they are doing what they believe is necessary to try and survive. I agree with Cordell and J Kiss, the people of Somalia sees these pirates as heroes because they are pouring money back into their economy. It’s a blessing that the couple was released but it sucks to know you can’t travel freely and enjoy life due to the actions of ignorant people who believe they are doing something that is right. Hopefully Somalia will seek help in trying to end this because they can’t do it alone.
ReplyDeleteIt's a great thing that the Chandlers were freed from the hostage situation, but they are still one of the many people that Somali pirates take hostage. After a year, this couple was finally released. What does that say about the whole negotiation process? The Somali pirates are known for taking people hostage, and yet no preventive measures have been taken to protect those who want to sail the seas. The main thing that the pirates want is money. The easy way out of that matter is to give them what they ask for. Since no one is really too keen on paying a ransom, why not fund the means of preventive measures. That way, the money that is being spent on ransoms would be spent on preventing hostage situations. How would one rather have that money spent?
ReplyDeleteThis is mind boggling and very disturbing...you have a group of pirates, that sail the sea, capture innocent people and hold them hostage, ask for ransom money, and GET IT?! Like they say in the south, where they do that at?? Are pirates in a certain jurisdiction where they cant be touched? If not, then why is it taking them (govt officials) so long to make a major move and free the hostages on that boat and the vessels? And if the Chandlers dont have income and money set aside like that ($300,000) and they are not important people, then how on earth did they negotiate for their ransom? And what about the remaining 500 hostages that have probably been their longer or are nearly dying onboard? This makes no sense at all, like where did the money come from if the British govt didnt have anything to do with it? They had to have some type of involvement with this case. If they are going to be doing something for this couple then they (govt) need to be doing something for the others as well. Very greatful for this couple to last 13mths on this ship and make it off alive, but the arrangements that were made for their freedom is very troubling and not ligit, and I dont think that's fair to the others. But the money that these pirates are laundrying in, where is it going too? While the govt can use that money and the Somalia country to provide to the less fortunate, you would think that these officials would have thought twice about this choice before making negotiations. As for the vessels, if companies dont want to take the time out and reroute their paths at sea, then they deserve to lose their property at sea. They would save more in taking time out to reroute their paths then to lose all of it as one. And can the military not be able to do something about this? I personally feel that the ransom money should have been held back, UNLESS it was being provided from the family themselves.
ReplyDeleteA retired couple has been taken hostage by pirates; SICK and SAD! I remember the great stories I use to read way back when I was a child, but I would had never thought they would be real, real and so mean. This clearly what happens there’s no functioning government to take control of situations like this. I am glad the couple made it back home safely
ReplyDeleteThe Pirates must have extremely harsh conditions in their country to go after these vessels that now have protection on them or just extremely driven by greed. Although Greg has brought us proof that because the countries ocean has been used as the dumping grounds for our waste the pirates have been attacking because of that. The Pirates do have some learning to do though. They can continue to attack yachts and risk being captured by the task force for broke vacationers or start being a little more systematic at who and what they are capturing. The pirates may have let them go without the money but I find that highly unlikely. They had them for over a year. They held out for something. If the countries conditions do not get any better the task force is going to succeed very little.
ReplyDeleteI was under the impression that Somalia was a country with no centralized government, but then in the article it says, "Somali Prime Minister Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed met the couple and said the government was pleased they had been freed. He said the government had exerted every humanly possible effort to bring you back to your loved ones." This would suggest that there is a centralized government, but then it says at the end of the article, "Somalia has been without a functioning government since clan-based warlords toppled dictator Mohamed Siad Barre in 1991". So is there a centralized government or not.
ReplyDeletePiracy in Somalia seems to be growing into a big problem. With a nation that is in such disarray and that has been warring with neighboring clans within its borders, it only makes sense that the people who are desperate for a secure living and who are starving from a lack of stability in a warring country, would turn to crime to help them make a living. They highjack boats and kidnapp people for ransom because they are so desperate. However I am not defending criminals or their actions regardless of how desperate they are. To stop this piracy, the United Nations needs to address this topic and have multiple nations commit ships from their navys to patrol the waters around somalia. This issue should be an important one to the UN because of the major trade route from the Gulf of Aiden, through the Red Sea, to the Mediterannean Sea. This means that there are hundreds of ships carrying goods that are at risk. That means millions upon millions of dollars that could be potentially lost, which could affect the economy in a negative way. On top of this, countries as well as business corporations have been paying these huge ransoms, which is adding fuel to the fire. These ransoms are funding the pirates so that they can expand their efforts, making the problem even bigger than what it was.
ReplyDeletewow... Being held hostage for a year is absolutely crazy. these people really do want every little cent they can possibly get. these pirates are animals. holding a retired couple for 388 days? the man who gave the money is a hero and the couple is a pair troopers. most people would go insane. what i dont understand is why did the pirates hold on to them for so long. they held on to them for so long to get only half a million dollars? yeah thats a lot of money to me and you but there used to getting millions and one time.
ReplyDeleteFirst let me say, damn I wish I could afford a private yacht, and wow a year/388 days. Holy cow! Whatever the government was doing obviously was not working. I get that they were capture a night, but how don’t people feel the boat more or hear sounds? I had the water as it is so I know I would be super cautious if I was on the water. Why have we not created some kind of security system for boat, something that has a loud alarm or something? In class we were shown a GIS mapping of hot spot on the water that show were the pirates like to hang out, I’m curious if that available to the public. They have so many people over there held against their will and not to mention hundreds of boats. Not to sound heartless but could we have a special force unit to just take them all out, I know it not politically right to do. Guess Jeffrey Reiman had it right when he said we are too soft when we punish people. I think is a better idea them trying to negotiate with money, let’s just mow them down and call it a night.
ReplyDeleteI agree with everyone that thinks the government should STOP falling subject to the pirate's authority by giving into their demands for money. Why do you think they keep hijacking ships and taking hostages? Because they know in the end they will get what they want. They negotiated for over a year with the British couple they held hostage.....WHY would you negotiate with the pirates instead of finding alternative measures to gain control of the ship again? I honestly don't see an ending to the pirate problem as long as the government keeps giving them what they want, which is money. Once you cut off that resource from getting into the pirate's hands, they will have no other choice but to stop.
ReplyDeletePirating pays, is it me or does it seems that every country has a policy that says “we do not negotiate with terrorist” or “we do not pay ransoms to terroristic organizations”? The Chandlers seem to be hard working and law abiding citizens, who retired at an early age, I would also include paid their taxes. For the U.K. to turn their backs on the Chandlers and turn to diplomatic policy is outrageous. Surely the Chandlers having worked all their lives paid more than the ransom price in back taxes to their government. The problem that bothers me is not the fact that they will not negotiate with terrorist, I actually like this policy. The problem that I have is the simple fact that countries are not being aggressive towards these terrorist. Last time I check the U.S. and some other countries in which I think the U.K. declared “War on Terrorism”. Bottom-line, Countries should not tolerate terroristic acts on innocent people.
ReplyDeleteAlso to add… I’m opening up an Insurance company who specialize in the protection of pirates policy; it’s called the Pirate Policy. In the Pirate Policy the consumer will pay me over a period of time, the money will be stored just in case pirates take you as a hostage. Like many countries we do not negotiate with terrorist but we will pay them. CAPITALISM
It is just crazy to think that pirates still exist today. It is something you expect to hear in a story. This problem is similar to Africa's rebel group. I agree with mvelazquez682 on this issue. These countries aren't being hard enough on terrorism. Maybe it's because the poor economy of these countries. Either way they must step up to prevent and catch these pirates.
ReplyDeleteI really think something needs to be done about the Somolian prirates. Pirates! For real, do they still exist? And what a lucrative business. Every time they do this they earn millions. What about our war on terrorism? Can't military intervention be considered? I believe that the African countries need to be a bit more deligent about ending piracy. Must be nice for this couple to have a private yatch and sail the ocean blue, but why put yourself in harms way? Since this piracy problem is becoming larger than life, why can't the United Nations get involved with this and lets all work together to end this nonsense!
ReplyDeletehere is my question, this is a couple that are retired and don't have the money to pay the ransom. they were help for almost a year, who payed the ranson? which government stepped in and payed up? I say take the french approach and shoot the pirates on site, instead of ours where we give them a ride home. don't take this wrong, actually don't care you know there are pirates in these waters, yet you sail your yacht throught there anyways? is your bravado that strong? or is it stupidity? ships i can understand titi is the only way in or out, private boats can go aroaund or another way.
ReplyDeleteTo respond to Vanessa, the pirates are organized and that is why a small group of them are so successful at what they are doing. It may not seem right that they are taking over our seas, but it's happening and nothing is really being done to stop it. There aren't more forces, because who would be the policing system? Because it sure as hell isn't going to be anyone in the middle east or Africa. No it would go to the UN who would put America as the ever present watch dog to do it. We don't have the capability to do it, our military is already stretched thin enough as it is!
ReplyDeleteOh and I'm happy the couple is okay though!
Far more than the loss of wealth and property, the two British hostages in this article lost a full year of life taken by Somali Pirates. While Somali Pirates have become a growing danger to West African waters, there is little that can be done to further prevent this crime from occurring. First and foremost, sailors should steer far from West African waters to prevent their own unfortunate victimization. While the difficulty with policing the waters still remains, the lack of suitable prey will drive off a majority of Somali pirates. In my opinion, the best method of driving of future pirate attacks is to emphasize and support economic growth in West Africa. Many of Africa’s problems are born from vast amounts of poverty and a lack of a suitable economic structure. If we invest in the region we should see a drastic fall in pirate crime because many resort to piracy as a means to feed their families.
ReplyDeleteWow, Somalia has not had a functioning government since 1991 so its run by who, the warlords? If there is no functioning government who is looking after the people in that country? Seems barbaric what the Somalians are doing but what other recourse do they have. I agree with what Deavon is saying. Sad that so many people are held hostage though. Not sure what a country's take is on hostages in other countries.
ReplyDeleteAs with traditional gangs they are money hungry and focused on taking from others to support their lifestyle and cause fear while controlling certain areas. This is indicative and characterstic of any gang. I am pleased that this couple is okay. I think something needs to be monitered more effectively because this is becoming a major problem for everyone and quite frankly I am tired of innocent people being overrun by criminals and gangs.
ReplyDeletePirates have been around longer than most give them credit, and now we start hearing about them again (but this time as much more brutal and are at a different level now). I am shocked to see over a year later that hostages are then released. Why were they not killed and why were they kept for so long? I guess taking care of 2 hostages was worth the "money they were waiting on". Due to the governments lack of attention or force, the country will repeatedly run this country based on his owe views. I have not an idea to an "answer" to this problem, although it should be looked into. I wonder how couple was treated and what it was like being held hostage (not that I would want to know first hand though).
ReplyDelete