US indicts 11 suspected pirates accused in attacks on Navy vessels off Africa

US indicts 11 suspected pirates

NORFOLK, Va. — Eleven suspected pirates have been indicted on U.S charges of piracy and other counts related to attacks on two U.S. naval vessels off the coast of Africa.

The indictment was unsealed in Virginia on Friday, one hour after the suspects were led by heavy security into the federal courthouse in Norfolk.

One of the accused pirates had a bandaged head while another was carried into the court building. The 11 were scheduled for a court appearance Friday afternoon.

In addition to the piracy count, the charges include attacks to plunder a vessel, assault with a dangerous weapon, and use of a firearm during a crime of violence.