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European Union maritime units have safely freed 24 sailors from a Maltese-flagged oil tanker that was targeted by pirates off the coast of Somali waters.

The Hellas Aphrodite, which was transporting fuel from Indian ports to South African destinations, was seized on Thursday when armed pirates opened fire with automatic weapons and explosive projectiles before taking control of the ship.

All sailors secured themselves inside a secure safe room while the pirates took control of the ship.

Successful Rescue Operation

A naval vessel, functioning under the European Union's maritime security operation, arrived at the tanker on Friday afternoon. Special forces boarded the vessel and discovered all 24 crew members safe and sound.

"All personnel is safe and no harm have been reported. During the ordeal, they stayed in the citadel in constant communication with the operation," authorities stated, noting that a "demonstration of power" had convinced the attackers to abandon the vessel before the warship arrived.

Ongoing Threat

Officials added that the danger level in the area "remains critical" as the armed groups are continue to be in the area.

The rescue operation involved a aircraft, drone and reconnaissance plane. Shortly before, a different vessel in the identical region was approached by a fast boat but managed to evade it.

Return of Maritime Crime

This incident marks the most recent in a series of incidents that have created concern about a renewal of piracy in the region.

Piracy operations had declined when global maritime security and security measures were implemented after reaching their highest point more than a decade ago.

Nevertheless, attacks by militant groups on ships in the Arabian Sea, which have been carried out for the past two years, have caused vessels to be diverted through the African coastline - opening up new opportunities for local pirate groups.

Statistical Overview

• Multiple piracy cases of maritime crime occurred off the shoreline of the Somali region in the previous year
• Several vessel takeovers were recorded among these incidents
• A single case of maritime crime was reported in the preceding year

Maritime security experts continue to monitor the situation as vessel operators travel through these potentially hazardous waters.