Shonan Maru No. 2 Attacks Sea Shepherd Ship with Water Cannons

The Japanese harpoon vessel Shonan Maru No. 2 is engaging in some very bizarre
activities.

At 1300 Hours, the Japanese vessel moved in with water cannons blazing. As
they came closer, they turned on their LRAD's and surprisingly they began to
broadcast the following message over their loudspeaker: "Steve Irwin, cease
your aggressive action. Stop your aggressive action. We have the authority to
repel you."

This was followed by, "Warning, warning. This is Shonan Maru No. 2's Captain.
Stop your destructive actions immediately or we will have to hold you to
Federal law."

It is ridiculous to accuse the Steve Irwin of attacking the Shonan Maru No. 2.
The Japanese vessel is much faster. The crew of the Steve Irwin has been
trying to get the Shonan Maru No. 2 off their trail for eleven days.

The Shonan Maru No. 2 set off the collision alert system fourteen times as it
chased and circled the Steve Irwin.

The crew of the Steve Irwin managed to deploy a stern protection line. The
Shonan Maru No. 2 ran over the 100-meter long line and snapped it and then
backed off. Water cannons from both ships made the crew on both ships very wet
but there were no direct hits causing any injuries.

After nearly two hours of harassment, the Shonan Maru No. 2 backed off. There
was no visible indication that the vessel suffered prop damage.

The Shonan Maru No. 2 gave false information to Australian authorities in
Fremantle when they stopped in the Australian port for fuel and provisions.
The Shonan Maru No. 2 reported they were not part the Japanese whaling fleet.
In fact, the Shonan Maru No. 2 is specifically permitted this year to engage
in whaling activities and is currently assisting in protecting the main body
of the whaling fleet.

END

About Sea Shepherd Conservation Society

Established in 1977, Sea Shepherd Conservation Society (SSCS) is an
International non-profit conservation organization whose mission is to end the
destruction of habitat and slaughter of wildlife in the world¹s oceans in
order to conserve and protects ecosystems and species. Sea Shepherd uses
innovative direct-action tactics to investigate, document, and take action
when necessary to expose and confront illegal activities on the high seas. By
safeguarding the biodiversity of our delicately-balanced ocean ecosystems, Sea
Shepherd works to ensure their survival for future generations. Founder and
President Captain Paul Watson, is a renowned, respected leader in
environmental issues. Visit http://www.seashepherd.org for more information.