Israeli cargo vessel caught in pirate trap in Indian Ocean. After speeding up, it manages to sail away

For the second time this year, pirates try to hijack a cargo ship belonging to the Israeli Zim shipping firm. The ship managed to escape from pirates´ attempt to seize the vessel during a voyage on the Indian Ocean on Sunday morning.

The ship was transporting containers with electronics and construction materials. The vessel was making its way back to Israel.

Crew members aboard the ship reported the pirates clung to the Israeli ship, in an attempt to take it over. For over two hours they tried to get close to the ship, but eventually the Israeli vessel managed to sail away after increasing its speed.

Zim officials have confirmed the matter. Transport Ministry Spokesman Avner Ovadia told Ynet, "It´s an area swarming with pirates, who often covet the cargo, taking over the ships and releasing them after receiving ransom or after they looted the cargo."

In March 2010, Somalia pirates attempted to seize the Zim ship Africa Star in the same area. Israeli security guards aboard the Africa Star fended off two boats of Somali pirates 550 kilometers off the coast on its route from Mombasa, Kenya, to Djibouti.

The Zim Asia was involved in an accident over five years ago, killing seven Japanese fishermen. The ship´s second officer in command was found guilty of negligence and sentenced to community service. (Copyright 2011 © Yedioth Internet 01/02/11)