It is October and the Pittsburgh Pirates are nowhere to be seen. However, the Somali pirates are still playing. It seems somewhat strange to talk about pirates in 2008. A couple of weeks ago, Somali pirates seized a Ukrainian tanker with military cargo and are holding out for a $20 million ransom for the ship, crew and contents. Yesterday, Somali pirates captured a Greek tanker. We will see what they ask for the safe return of that vessel, contents and crew. Go to: http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/World/2008/10/11/7053586-ap.html.
I always have some basic questions whenever I hear about piracy. If nobody pays the ransom for a ship, what do the pirates do with it? It would be tough to bring it to a pawn shop. If you tried to sell it on eBay, the shipping charges would be prohibitive - unless the buyer lives near a major port.
All kidding aside, this is a scary situation. Insurance can cover the loss of ships and their contents. The crews on the ships are made up of people that are loved by other people. Family and friends cannot be replaced. Let's hope for resolutions that have no loss of life or injuries.
This situation is a result of the chaotic political situation in Somalia. We should also pray for stabilty for the people of Somalia.
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