Denmark is set to pay for a prosthetic limb and rehabilitation for Nigerian pirate Lucky Frances, 42, following a gunfight with the Danish navy in 2021.
Frances was part of a group of pirates that attacked the Danish frigate Esbern Snare during its patrol in the Gulf of Guinea. The clash left four pirates dead, while Frances was injured and later had his leg amputated after being taken to Denmark for treatment.
Despite being convicted of endangering naval personnel, Frances avoided jail due to his medical condition.
Initially expressing a desire to return to Nigeria, he later applied for and was granted asylum in Denmark, securing a residence permit in January.
As part of his “integration” plan, Frances will receive education and employment support, along with a state-funded prosthetic.
The decision has sparked controversy, with opposition politicians, including Mikkel Bjorn of the Danish People’s Party, criticising the cost to taxpayers, which already amounts to $615,000 in legal fees. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen also expressed concerns over the ruling.
Image credit: Solomon Wada
Perhaps Denmark could also sew a parrot onto his shoulder and give him a pirate hat.