Somali Pirates Escalate Activity Amid Heightened Maritime Threats

Maritime security officials have raised concerns about rising risks to vessels near Somalia after a cargo ship was taken by pirates in a suspected hijacking. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) upgraded the threat level in the region to “substantial,” citing the seizure of the ship by “unauthorised persons” and its redirection into Somali waters on Sunday.

Over the past week, at least four ships have been targeted in pirate attacks, including a fishing vessel and an oil tanker. The UKMTO noted that the area, once relatively safe, has seen a resurgence in piracy activity. “Due to the heightened risk of PAG operations, vessels are advised to transit with caution,” the UKMTO stated, highlighting that weather conditions are favorable for small boat movements.

A ship was taken by pirates six nautical miles off Garacad, Somalia, according to the UKMTO. No further details about the incident were disclosed. Separately, a hijacking occurred off the coast of Mareeyo, northern Somalia, on 21 April. Additionally, an oil tanker named Honour 25, carrying 17 crew members, was seized on 22 April near the Somali coast, as confirmed by multiple security officials.

Pirates Take Control of Vessel Near Somali Shore

Following the hijacking, the Honour 25 anchored near the Somali shore, between the fishing towns of Xaafun and Bander Beyla. The crew consisted of 10 Pakistanis, four Indonesians, one Indian, one Sri Lankan, and one Myanmar national. The UKMTO reported that a Somali-flagged fishing vessel and oil tanker were also seized on Thursday, though the exact circumstances remain unclear.

On Thursday, at least two armed individuals attempted to board a cargo ship via a small boat. The crew reportedly repelled the attack by firing warning shots. The World Bank estimates that between 2005 and 2012, pirates in the Horn of Africa earned $339m to $413m by holding crews hostage and demanding ransom payments.

“Due to the increased threat of possible PAG activity, vessels are advised to transit with caution,” the UKMTO said in a statement, noting that weather is conducive to small boat operations.