The Directorate General of the Maritime and Navigation Service of Haiti (SEMANAH) expresses its deep concern at the acts of piracy and kidnapping perpetrated by unidentified armed individuals against fishermen and passengers.

These repeated attacks have resulted in material and human losses, physical violence, abuse and trauma inflicted on innocent victims, especially passengers and small traders.

The SEMANAH :

a) Shares the suffering and sorrows of the seafarers, passengers and traders who are victims of these acts of violence;

b) Strongly protest against the resurgence of violence in the maritime sector;

c) Denounces the wickedness of sea pirates;

d) Oppose to the constraints imposed by pirates that impede the free movement of goods and people.

Facts observed :

• On April 18, 2023, the ship "LA SOUCIENNE" under the command of Captain Sam Bazile, carrying 5 sailors and an undetermined number of passengers, was hijacked by pirates between Wharf Jérémie and Arcahaie.

• On May 21, 2023, the ship "PA PRESE DI SA", piloted by Captain Lubin Kervens, was attacked and taken hostage during its journey between Arcahaie and Wharf Jérémie, with passengers and goods on board.

• On June 23, 2023, the ship "LA VIE DES ENFANTS" was hijacked and directed by the pirates to the Minoterie d'Haiti. Captain Bareno Louis, father of 9 children, was killed and the ship was looted. The 4 crew members and 25 passengers are still sequestered.

• The ship "GRAS A DYE" carrying 3 sailors, 6 passengers and Captain Ricardo Vilsaint, was sequestered by pirates on June 23, 2023 during its journey between Mariani and Arcahaie.

Taken measures :

SEMANAH asks the National Police of Haiti, in collaboration with the Coast Guard of Haiti (GCH), to strengthen maritime patrols in order to counter acts of piracy on the coast.

HL/ HaitiLibre