Indonesia fears piracy surge on shipping route could make it the 'new Somalia'

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Indonesia has growing concerns that it is being targeted by pirates along its sea border with the Philippines. It has warned shipping lines to avoid the area, which has recently seen several kidnappings. Some $40bn of cargo passes along the route annually, although it tends to be supertankers and bulk cargo. Recent attacks have been carried out by groups connected to Islamic militants Abu Sayyaf. Up to 18 seafarers are being held hostage. Ministers and armed forces chiefs of Indonesia, ...