Posted by [ad_1]
Friday January 5, 2024
Descriptions and incident location match the 2006-built 170,000 DWT Capesize Lila Norfolk.Source: Lila Global
Mogadishu (HOL) -The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) has issued a high-priority alert following the boarding of a Liberian-flagged merchant vessel by armed individuals in the Arabian Sea, near the coast of Somalia.
The UKMTO, in their statement released on Thursday, reported that between five and six unauthorized armed persons had boarded the vessel, which was en route to Bahrain. Following emergency protocols, the crew secured themselves in the ship’s citadel — a reinforced safe room designed for such crises.
The incident occurred approximately 460 nautical miles east of Eyl, Somalia, at 1419 UTC on January 4, 2024. The vessel’s Company Security Officer (CSO) alerted the UKMTO, triggering a swift response.
In addition to the immediate danger posed by the armed boarding, the UKMTO has raised concerns about the vessel’s compromised navigational lighting, which may fall below the minimum specifications for anti-collision regulations.
The UKMTO’s advisory underscores the persistent risk of piracy in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and Arabian Sea. The agency, dedicated to maintaining maritime situational awareness, stresses the importance of such information for the marine industry to preemptively address potential threats.
Shipping companies, including industry leader Maersk, have been on high alert due to increased piracy activities and attacks in the region. The recent December seizure of the MV Ruen and its crew has intensified these concerns. In response, some vessels have opted to reroute via the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa, leading to increased maritime costs.
This incident occurs against a backdrop of heightened regional tensions. Reports suggest a rise in pirate attacks and an alleged agreement between Al Shabab, a designated terrorist organization, and Somali pirates. While this agreement has not been officially confirmed, Al Shabab has threatened to protect piracy activities in exchange for ship ransom.
The UKMTO and maritime security firm Ambrey continue to monitor the situation closely. Vessels transiting through these waters are advised to exercise heightened vigilance and report any suspicious activities immediately.
The situation remains fluid, with the latest reports indicating a drone attack by the Houthis on a US commercial vessel in the Red Sea on Thursday, part of a series of assaults on American assets in the area.
[ad_2]