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Africa Horn
Somali Men Plead Not Guilty Over Navy Pirate Attacks
2010-05-01
Ten Somali men pleaded not guilty to federal allegations of piracy in connection with attacks on U.S. Navy ships off the coast of Africa.
"Just simple, well-armed fishermen, yer honour, shooting at your navy because of a simple excess of high spirits."
"Yar!"
"Shaddup, you!!!"
The men, captured after exchanging fire with Navy vessels in African waters, faced charges of piracy, conspiracy and assault with a dangerous weapon today in federal court in Norfolk, Virginia. Nine pleaded not guilty, while another had done so earlier this week. The hearing for an additional defendant will be held May 6, said Peter Carr, a spokesman for the U.S. Attorney's Office. The men were denied bail, Carr said.

Navy personnel captured five of the men March 31 after they fired on the frigate USS Nicholas off Seychelles, according to court papers. The other six were taken into custody after they allegedly attacked the amphibious dock landing ship USS Ashland on April 10 off the coast of Djibouti.

The two separate trials have been scheduled for July 6.

The U.S. and its allies agreed this year to consider setting up a system under which suspected pirates could face trials and prison terms outside their home countries.
Posted by:Steve White

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