Download 18 FREE Maritime eBooks
Somali Pirates Hijack Yemeni Fishing Boat Off Somalia’s Coast, Crew Held Hostage
A Yemeni fishing boat has been hijacked by suspected Somali pirates off Durdura, near Eyl, on the northern coast of Puntland, Somalia. According to EUNAVFOR ATALANTA, the incident took place on March 16 and has been officially classified as a hijacking.
Per reports, seven hijackers are aboard the fishing vessel, which has a crew of eight Somali nationals. Operation Atalanta, the European naval force responsible for monitoring maritime security in the region, is closely tracking the situation.
It is also coordinating with the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) and the Yemeni Coast Guard to assess the next steps. This is the second such incident in the region this year.
On February 17, another fishing boat, SAYTUUN-2 was attacked by pirates and held for five days.
The crew was robbed before the attackers fled. However, unlike that case, which was initially classified as armed robbery, this incident has been labelled a hijacking.
Piracy incidents have increased in Somali waters in recent months. In December, pirates armed with AK-47s boarded a Chinese fishing vessel and held up to 18 crew members captive.
The Chinese embassy later confirmed that the ship was released in mid-January.
Before this latest hijacking, the last case classified as a hijacking by Operation Atalanta occurred in May 2024. The surge in piracy incidents began in late 2023 when the Houthis were attacking merchant vessels in the Red Sea.
The European Union extended Operation Atalanta’s mandate until early 2027. The mission launched in 2008, has played an important role in combating piracy and has contributed to the capture and conviction of 145 pirates so far.
Operation Atalanta has urged all merchant and vulnerable vessels operating in the region to register under the Maritime Security Centre-Horn of Africa (MSCHOA) Voluntary Registration Scheme (VRS).
This will enable better monitoring and faster response to potential threats. Naval forces remain on high alert as investigations into the hijacking continue.
Reference: Eunavfor
Related Posts
Disclaimer :
The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.
Disclaimer :
The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.
Related Articles
⚓️ Enhance Your Knowledge. Prevent Accidents. Stay Safe at Sea.
1. eBooks for Engine Department
Master machinery operations, troubleshooting, and safety procedures with expertly written guides tailored for marine engineers. Prevent costly breakdowns and onboard accidents through practical knowledge.
👉 Explore Engine Department eBooks
2. eBooks for Deck Department
Sharpen your seamanship, navigation, and cargo-handling skills with real-world case studies and practical insights designed for deck officers and cadets.
👉Discover Deck Department eBooks
3. eBooks on Electrical Fundamentals & Issues
Understand marine electrical systems, identify potential faults, and prevent onboard electrical failures with step-by-step explanations from industry experts.
4. Pocket Guides for Quick Reference
Compact, handy, and loaded with essential checklists—perfect for on-the-go reference during operations and emergencies at sea.
5. Combo Packs to Save Big
Access multiple expert eBooks at discounted prices. Ideal for professionals seeking complete safety and operational knowledge across various ship departments.
6. Digital Maritime Courses – Learn at Your Own Pace
Upgrade your competence with Marine Insight Academy’s online courses. Learn from industry professionals anytime, anywhere, and become a safer, smarter seafarer.
Subscribe To Our Daily Newsletter
By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and may receive occasional deal communications; you can unsubscribe anytime.
BE THE FIRST TO COMMENT