Confusion over 'catch and release'

摘要

Despite the successful disruption of several recent attacks in the Gulf of Aden, confusion continues over the jurisdiction of those tasked with intercepting the pirates.rnA number of operations in recent weeks have ended not with prosecution, but with pirates simply being released after having their weapons and equipment seized.The problem stems from the lack of a NATO detainment policy, with the crew of warships in the area forced to follow national law. The crew of a Dutch vessel, for example, is unable to arrest suspected pirates unless the attack is targeted at Dutch citizens or takes place in Dutch waters.