PIRATE ATTACKS DECREASE, BUT DEATHS ARE UP

PIRATE ATTACKS DECREASE, BUT DEATHS ARE UP

PIRATE ATTACKS DECREASE, BUT DEATHS ARE UP
   The International Maritime Bureau in London says pirate attacks have
decreased in number but increased in violence.
   In its annual report, the organization said the number of reported
attacks on ships decreased to 198 last year from 247 in 1997, but that
deaths and injuries have increased. The bureau said at least 67 seafarers
were killed and 35 injured in pirate attacks last year.