Washington (ECN) - Gunfire broke out on a Ukranian cargo whip that was hijacked by pirates.

The cargo ship was hijacked by Somali pirates on the Indian Ocean, and things are getting more heated.

It is not known if the gunfire was between rival hijackers, or something else.

Three of the pirates died on Monday when a shootout took place between the rival hijacker factions.

The pirates are said to be demanding $20 million for the release of the ship.

The ship is stocked with Soviet-era tanks, as well as weapons.