Gabon: Nine Mariners Abducted in Pirate Attack. LIBREVILLE, Gabon — 11 January 2026 (AGP) – A Gabonese flagged trawler, the IB Fish 7, was attacked by pirates in the early hours of January 11, 2026, according to the Gabonese National Defense Ministry.
The incident occurred approximately seven nautical miles southwest of the Equator, within Gabon’s territorial waters.
Confirmed: The attack resulted in the abduction of nine crew members, including five Chinese and four Indonesians. Six other mariners, of Indonesian, Chinese, and Burkinabé nationality, remained aboard the vessel.
The Marine nationale, supported by gendarmerie naval units, escorted the trawler to Libreville, where it docked at the port of Owendo.
Official Statements: The National Defense Ministry confirmed that the situation is being closely monitored at the highest level of the state.
An investigation has been opened by the Libreville Public Prosecutor’s Office to identify the attackers and shed light on the circumstances of the attack. Context: Gabon has been dealing with maritime insecurity, with previous incidents of piracy occurring in the region.
These attacks often target foreign vessels and crew members, highlighting the area’s vulnerability to piracy.
Further Details: While the fate of the abducted crew members remains unclear, officials have not yet commented on any potential ransom demands or negotiation efforts.
The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to be released as they become available.
Source: Gabonese National Defense Ministry communiqué, gabonactu. Com, gabonreview.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
