Southern Giants Forces Seize Iran-Linked Smuggling Vessel Near Bab al-Mandab, Arrest 10 Crew

Yemen’s Southern Giants Forces said they seized a smuggling vessel believed to have originated from Iran near the Bab al-Mandab Strait, one of the world’s most critical shipping routes.

The operation took place on March 25, 2026, off the coast of Lahj Governorate, leading to the arrest of 10 crew members and the seizure of unauthorised cargo.

According to security officials, a naval patrol monitored the vessel for several hours before intercepting it in territorial waters near Al-Mudharabah and Ras Al-Arah districts.

The operation was carried out under a security campaign led by Brigadier General Hamdi Shukri, commander of the Second Giants Division.

After boarding the ship, authorities found a shipment of medicines that were not authorised to enter, along with quantities of metal wires described as dual-use materials. These items were seized.

The crew, made up of 10 sailors holding Pakistani nationality, were arrested during the operation. They have been taken into custody as investigations continue.

Officials said the vessel had left Bandar Abbas on March 12, 2026, and was heading towards Al-Salif port in Al-Hudaydah Governorate, an area under the control of Houthi forces.

Authorities said the ship was using a secret route in an apparent attempt to reach its destination. The seized cargo and the vessel are now under control of the forces, and the crew will be referred to the relevant authorities for legal action.

Abdulrahman Al-Mahrami, a member of Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council and commander of the Southern Armed Forces, praised the operation. He said the interception shows the level of alertness of the forces and helps stop supplies from reaching Houthi fighters.

He also stressed the need to continue protecting coastal areas and sea routes from smuggling activities. He said efforts will be increased to stop any materials from reaching armed groups and to maintain security in the region.

The route is one of the key passages for international shipping, and any such activity raises concerns for maritime trade and security.

Reference: Southern Giants forces

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