Google maps is increasingly being used to track things like wildfires, the flu and people in need of a Craig'slist random hookup. Now someone has employed its services to create an annotated map (pictured here) that shows where Somali pirate attacks are taking place.

Using official documents, a Google user called "expedition" created a detailed map that allows you to "view the actual pirate bases, vehicles, checkpoints, and pirate boats. Locate the precise areas of the sea where vessels are hijacked, and where the pirates drop anchor to hold their crews for ransom."

This is further proof that the exploits of brash pirates off the coast of Somalia, who have been hijacking big oil tankers and other ships and holding them for ransom, have captured the public's imagination. Of course, some of this can be attributed to the fact that most people envision Johnny Depp and Orlando Bloom taking part in the Somali swashbuckling.

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