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Cargo Ship 'Hijacked' Off The Coast Of The Isle Of Wight

Cargo Ship 'Hijacked' Off The Coast Of The Isle Of Wight

Reports claim seven stowaways had tried to take control of the vessel

Dominic Smithers

Dominic Smithers

A cargo ship has reportedly been 'hijacked' off the coast of the Isle of Wight.

According to reports, seven stowaways were found on board the Nave Andromeda and attempted to take control.

Members of the crew are said to be sheltering in 'certain points' on the ship.

Isle of Wight Radio initially stated that 'a number' of stowaways had been found, with the Andromeda supposed to dock at Southampton but ultimately refused entry. The report added that a mayday signal was sent out at around 9am.

It's understood that coastguard helicopter has been seen circling the Liberian-registered vessel and that an exclusion zone of five nautical miles has been set up.

In a later update, the radio station said it had been told a total of seven Nigerian stowaways were on board the vessel, with armed units setting up base at the Historic Dockyard in Portsmouth.

A spokesperson for HM Coastguard confirmed that they were helping with the incident.

The statement read: "We are currently assisting Hampshire Constabulary with an incident on board a vessel situated off the Isle of Wight.

"The search and rescue helicopters from Lee on Solent and Lydd are in attendance."

Local police added: "We are aware and dealing with an ongoing incident on board a vessel which is situated south of the Isle of Wight."

A statement from Hampshire Police said the incident was 'ongoing'.

A spokesperson said: "We are aware and dealing with an ongoing incident on board a vessel which is situated south of the Isle of Wight."

The Royal Navy and the Special Boat Service (SBS) are also said to be involved in the operation.

More to follow.

Featured Image Credit: Isle of Wight Radio

Topics: UK News