The captain, second mate, and third mate of Eagle Bulk Shipping’s 58 000-dwt Glebe Bulker were kidnapped off the coast of Gabon.
The kidnapping took place 8.7 kilometres from the Port of Owendo’s anchorage, and the remaining seafarers returned safely.
The bulker had arrived from Nigeria and was waiting for loading instructions when the kidnappings occurred.
"Once it was discovered crew were missing, the ship was searched, and the local port authorities were informed," said Eagle Bulk’s management in Singapore.
"Security has been mobilised to the vessel, and a contingent of 17 crew remain safely on board.
“Unfortunately, we have been unable to locate the three missing seafarers," Eagle Bulk said.
Contrary to earlier reports, it is believed that the attack occurred at 00:30 UTC (universal time coordinated) on Tuesday, and the Gabonese river patrol boat responded to the incident about two and a half hours later.
Despite its 190-meter length, the bulker had no security personnel.
This incident follows two hijacked tankers in the previous month and once again highlights the need to discuss the necessity of extra security on ships.
