Yacht Attacked by Pirates off Venezuela - Dog Shot

Trinidad - A couple from Manchester, UK have been raided by pirates off the coast of Venezuela.  Peter and Betty Lee were sailing up to the Caribbean on their second time 'round, when what looked like a fishing boat approached their yacht Raven Eye at high speed.  A shot was fired, and Peter rammed the attacking vessel broadside, knocking down the leader of the five bandits.  When the pirate stood up and fired directly at Peter, Lee realized he had to surrender.  Kankuntu, the couple's dog, then attacked the boarders, who shot and stabbed the faithful animal.

Peter was held face-down with a gun to his head, while Betty was taken below, where one of three pirates with her became even more hostile, pointing a gun at her face.  When the pirates found that there was little cash aboard, they tore Betty's finger apart trying to get her wedding ring.  Apparently frustrated, the pirates then grabbed what they could in the form of equipment, and left.

Betty Lee's daughter has reported that the 57-year-old has understandably had a few panic-attacks since the ordeal.  Peter, on the other hand, sounds ready to head out:  "We're British, so, you know - we're not going to let these people put us off.  'Stiff upper lip, C'mon old girl, stop shaking, get the black kettle on and I'll get the boat going!'"

And Kankuntu?  All dogs may go to heaven, but this one is in no rush.  Peter Lee says his 50lb. dog "thinks he's a lion," but he also must think he's invincible.  After a bullet was found and removed (several days after the shooting), and with what will no doubt be a pampered recovery befitting a hero, it looks like the little 'lion' is going to be fine.

- BH for YachtPals.com