Yemeni Fishing Boat Saytuun-2 Released After Hijacking Off Somali Coast

The Yemeni fishing boat Saytuun-2 has been released after being hijacked by suspected pirates off Garmaal on the northern coast of Puntland, Somalia.

The vessel was under pirate control from February 17-22, 2025, before the attackers vacated it after stealing some of the crew’s belongings.

On February 17, ATALANTA received an alert about a suspected pirate attack on a Yemeni-flagged dhow near Garmaal, close to Eyl, along the northern coast of Puntland.

The incident was classified as armed robbery at sea. Throughout the period, ATALANTA forces closely monitored the situation and coordinated with security partners in the region.

On February 22, the alleged pirates left the vessel, taking some of the crew’s personal belongings with them. The next morning, on February 23, ATALANTA forces conducted a friendly approach, gathering details from the crew.

The fishermen informed that the pirates took control of the boat and moved it to the high seas while being armed and equipped with ladders.

After several days, the attackers abandoned the vessel and disappeared. The crew members were found safe and in good condition.

This is the second such incident reported in the region in recent weeks. On February 8, 2025, a Yemeni-flagged dhow, identified as Al Najma, was hijacked near Eyl.

EUNAVFOR ATALANTA responded quickly by deploying naval and air assets to locate the vessel. Their presence played an important role in pressuring the pirates to release the vessel.

The dhow was sailing close to the Somali coast when it was freed. All 12 crew members were safe, with no reported injuries. The release of the vessel was announced on February 13, 2025.

Authorities have warned that similar attacks could happen again and have urged all merchant vessels and vulnerable boats to register under the MSCIO Voluntary Registration Scheme (VRS). This ensures better monitoring and rapid response by naval forces and their security partners.

Meanwhile, ATALANTA continues to monitor the region for maritime security threats and has shared recommendations with shipping operators.

Reference: Eunavfor

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