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Showing posts from March, 2024

Pakistan Navy to Conduct Live-Fire Exercises in Arabian Sea

  Maritime advisory issued for multiple zones off Pakistani coast CHARABAN, Pakistan - March 28, 2024 - The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Organisation (UKMTO) has issued a notice regarding upcoming live-fire exercises planned by the Pakistan Navy in the Arabian Sea. Exercise Details: Dates: Five separate periods - April 1-5, April 8-12, April 15-19, April 22-26, and April 29-30, 2024 Time: Daily between 0400 UTC and 0700 UTC (09:00 - 12:00 local time) Location: Four designated areas within the Arabian Sea, identified as A, B, C, and D. Specific coordinates for each area are: A. 24-24.30N 066-42.00E 24-19.00N 066-58.00E 24-00.00N 066-39.00E 24-11.00N 066-27.00E B. 24-36.02N 062-30.03E 24-36.02N 063-15.03E 24-21.02N 063-15.03E 24-21.02N 062-30.03E C. 24-36.02N 061-45.03E 24-36.02N 062-30.03E 24-21.02N 062-30.03E 24-21.02N 061-45.03E D. DEPTH CHARGE FIRING AREA 24-22.00N 066-27.00E 24-16.30N 066-33.00E 24-10.30N 066-27.00E 24-16.18N 066-20.50E Activity: Naval ships will conduct live

Increased Threat of Piracy Off Somali Coasts - Mariners Urged to Be Vigilant

  The Maritime Security Centre Horn of Africa (MSCHOA) has issued a warning to all vessels sailing off the coast of Somalia due to a recent surge in piracy activity. Key Points: Heightened Alert:  Ships in the Somali basin are urged to be extremely vigilant due to an increase in reported piracy incidents. Recent Attacks:  Since late November 2023, there have been multiple hijackings of merchant vessels and dhows (smaller boats). One merchant vessel, the M/V Abdullah, remains under pirate control. Pirate Tactics:  Pirates typically use captured dhows as motherships to approach and attack larger vessels further offshore. The possibility of attacks in the Gulf of Aden cannot be ruled out. Threat Level:  MSCHOA currently assesses the piracy threat off the Somali coast as "Moderate," meaning an attack is a realistic possibility. Recommendations: BMP5 Adherence:  All vessels are strongly advised to strictly follow Best Management Practices Version 5 (BMP5) to enhance security measu

Distress Call: Medical Emergency on SLFV SAMAYA 17

  An Inmarsat message received today, March 27, 2024, at 7:48 AM UTC, relayed a medical emergency aboard the SLFV SAMAYA 17. The Indian Coast Guard MRCC Mumbai is requesting assistance for a crew member on the vessel who is in critical condition with a bladder problem. The SLFV SAMAYA 17 (MMSI: IMUL-A-2145), last reported its position at 03°28'N 068°28'E at 2:37 PM UTC on March 26, 2024. The vessel is currently proceeding towards Sri Lanka with a course of 059 degrees at 6.2 knots. MRCC Mumbai is seeking any nearby vessels equipped with a medical facility and a urinary catheter to render assistance to the ailing crew member. They request that any vessel able to help should maintain a sharp lookout in the area and establish communication with MRCC Mumbai to coordinate assistance. Weather reports indicate favorable conditions in the area at this time.

Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapses After Collision with Cargo Ship

  BALTIMORE, MD - A major bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, the 1.6-mile long Francis Scott Key Bridge, collapsed early this morning after being struck by a large cargo ship "DALI" . The incident, which occurred around 1:30 AM EDT, is being reported as a mass casualty event with multiple vehicles and people falling into the water below. Multiple power outages and likely loss of control on "DALI" visible before Impact to Baltimore Francis Scott Key Bridge. Uncertainties Remain The extent of injuries and the number of people involved are still unclear. Emergency responders are currently on the scene conducting rescue operations. Cause of the Collapse According to reports, the container ship, identified as the "Dali" registered in Singapore, struck a support column of the bridge, causing the collapse. Videos circulating online show the entire bridge structure rapidly descending into the water. Rescue Efforts Underway Baltimore City Fire Department officials ha

Distress Call Issued for Missing Sloop in Tyrrhenian Sea

  The Italian Coast Guard (IMRCC Rome) has issued a distress call for a missing sloop in the Tyrrhenian Sea. The vessel (name "Janina") , a 17-meter long boat from 1939 with sail number X-G 21, departed from Elba Island two weeks ago bound for the coast of Sardinia with one person on board. Call to Action for All Ships in the Area All ships currently transiting the Tyrrhenian Sea are urged to be on high alert and report any sightings or relevant information to the Italian Coast Guard authorities. Contact Details for IMRCC Rome Telephone: +39 06 5924145 or +39 06 59084409 Fax: +39 06 5922737 or +39 06 59084793 Inmarsat C: 424744220 Email: itmrcc@mit.gov.it Acknowledgement Requested If you have received this message, please acknowledge receipt by email to the Italian Coast Guard, including your ship's satellite phone number, if available. Time is of the Essence The longer the missing sloop remains unaccounted for, the greater the risk to the person on board. By working toge

Distress Alert Issued for BWEK ANHOLT

UPDATE 25/03 8:00 UTC: The ship is currently anchored off Paranagua in Brazil March 22, 2024 - An Inmarsat distress alert was received at 11:04:17 UTC on March 22, 2024, for the LPG tanker BWEK ANHOLT. The vessel is currently located in position 25-58S 045-15W, approximately 1,200 nautical miles off the coast of Brazil. The BWEK ANHOLT departed Rio de Janeiro Anchorage on March 21 at 04:18 UTC and was en route to Montevideo, Uruguay, with an estimated arrival time of March 24 at 09:00 UTC. The vessel is a Maltese-flagged tanker built in 2008. It has a length of 120 meters, a beam of 20 meters, and a deadweight tonnage of 22,000. The current weather in the area is reported to be 23 knots with gusts to 36 knots, and seas of 3.2 meters. However, forecasts predict stable weather for the next few hours. Nearby vessels are requested to assist in the search and rescue operation. Any information should be reported to MRCCSAOPAULO@MARINHA.MIL.BR. Further Information: Vessel Name:  BWEK ANHOL

Increased Caution Urged in Gulf of Aden After Pirate Attack and Houthi Activity

  March 22, 2024 - Mariners operating in the Gulf of Aden are advised to exercise extreme caution following a reported pirate attack and ongoing activity by Iranian-backed Houthi forces in the region. Pirate Attack: A navigational warning (NAVAREA) issued by Inmarsat on March 22nd details an attack on a merchant vessel (M/V) in the Gulf of Aden near the position of 14-28.72N 053-29.00E. The attack reportedly occurred on March 21st at 08:00 UTC. Specific details about the vessel, the attackers, and the outcome of the incident are currently unavailable. Houthi Activity: In a separate development, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported on Twitter that coalition forces successfully intercepted and destroyed an unmanned surface vessel (USV) and two anti-ship ballistic missiles (ASBMs) launched by Houthi rebels on March 21st. The Houthi forces are based in Yemen, which borders the Red Sea near the southern entrance to the Gulf of Aden. Combined Threat: These events highlight the heightened

Indian Fishing Boat Al Huseni Reported Sinking Off Mumbai Coast

  The Indian Coast Guard's Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Mumbai received a distress message on March 21, 2024, at 11:13:30 Z regarding the sinking of the Indian fishing boat Al Huseni. Details of the Vessel in Distress: Name:  Al Huseni Registration Number:  IND-GJ-37-MM-1966 MMSI:  417047369 Flag:  Sri Lanka Type:  Sailing Vessel Length Overall (LOA):  15 meters Width:  4 meters Crew:  7 Location: The vessel reported sinking at position 23 Deg 25 N, 068 Deg 03 E, which is approximately 289 nautical miles from Jakhau Lighthouse. Current Weather Conditions: There are no reports of bad weather conditions in the area at the moment. Request for Assistance: MRCC Mumbai is requesting vessels transiting through the area to render assistance to the crew of Al Huseni and to inform them upon reaching the scene.

UKMTO Reports Armed Incident Off Coast of Yemen

  The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) has issued a warning regarding an armed incident that occurred 102 nautical miles southeast of Nishtun, Yemen. Reported Events: The master of a merchant vessel reported a small craft approaching the ship to within about 100 meters (one cable length). An exchange of small arms fire took place between the vessel's Armed Security Team and the occupants of the small craft. The small craft subsequently departed the area. Current Status: The merchant vessel and its crew are reported to be safe. The vessel is continuing its journey to its next port of call. Advisory: UKMTO advises all vessels transiting the area to exercise caution and report any suspicious activity to their office.

Search and Rescue Operation Underway for Vessel in Distress with 24 People on Board

  A distress message issued by the Italian Coast Guard reports that a vessel with approximately 24 people on board is in distress in the Mediterranean Sea. The last contact with the vessel was on March 20th at 15:05 UTC, and its approximate position was reported as 32 degrees, 34 minutes, 53 seconds North latitude and 25 degrees, 32 minutes, 1 second East longitude. The vessel is presumed to be drifting and in distress. Egyptian authorities are coordinating the search and rescue operation. The Italian Coast Guard has urged all ships transiting the area to keep a sharp lookout and report any possible sightings to the JRCC (Joint Rescue Coordination Centre) Cairo at the following contact details: Phone: 0020224184537 or 0020224184531 Fax: 0020224184531 or 0020224184537 Email: jrcc136@mod.gov.eg The utmost cooperation of all vessels in the area is highly recommended to facilitate a swift rescue of the missing persons. Additional Information: Incident:  SAR Case 326 Date:  March 20th, 2024

Distress Beacon Activated in North Atlantic Ocean

  Distress Beacon Activated in North Atlantic Ocean, Search Hampered by Severe Weather A distress beacon was activated on Thursday, March 21st, 2024, at 09:43 UTC (10:43 CET) in the North Atlantic Ocean. The United Kingdom Coastguard issued a MAYDAY message requesting vessels in the area to proceed to the beacon's location at 58° 40.8′ North, 19° 41.5′ West and investigate the situation. The identity of the vessel in distress is currently unknown. The United Kingdom Coastguard is coordinating the rescue effort. However, the search is being hampered by severe weather conditions in the area. Winds are currently gusting up to 52 knots (60 mph) with waves reaching 8 meters (26 feet). Reporting Information: Phone:  +44 344 382 0025 Email:  UKMRCC@HMCG.GOV.UK Weather Conditions: Wind:  41 knots sustained, gusting to 52 knots Sea State:  Very rough, with waves up to 8 meters Forecast:  Severe weather conditions expected to continue for the next several hours Additional Information: The Un

Real-Time Closure of Fishing Area in Skagerrak, Danish Waters

  Important Notice to All Fishers This notification informs you of a real-time closure implemented in a specific area of Skagerrak within Danish waters. The closure is a result of high levels of juvenile fish found during an inspection conducted in accordance with Commission Regulation (EC) No. 724/2010 of 12 August 2010. Closure Period: Effective from:  Thursday, March 21, 2024 (00:00 hours) Closure ends:  Wednesday, April 10, 2024 (23:59 hours) Closed Area: The closed area is defined by straight lines connecting the following four points: 57° 50.4 N 009° 08.5 E 57° 56.8 N 009° 29.2 E 57° 53.3 N 009° 33.2 E 57° 47.2 N 009° 12.8 E Restrictions: All fishing activities are prohibited within the designated closed area except for the use of the following gear types targeting specific fish species: Pelagic trawls, purse seines, driftnets, and jiggers targeting herring, mackerel, and horse mackerel Pots Scallop dredges Gillnets Best Regards, Lone Agathon Jensen Fisheries Inspector

UKMTO: Suspicious Activity Reported off Salalah, Oman

  Date: 20th March 2024 Location: 14.1954N, 54.4354E (160NM southeast of Salalah, Oman) Incident: On March 20, 2024, at 2:00 UTC, a merchant vessel reported a suspicious approach by a small craft approximately 160 nautical miles southeast of Salalah, Oman. The craft, which was about 0.3 nautical miles behind the merchant ship, had a visible ladder and seven crew members on board. It followed the larger vessel for about 20 minutes before leaving the area after the merchant ship's armed security team fired a warning shot. Advisory: Vessels are advised to transit with caution and report any suspicious activity to UKMTO. UKMTO recommends that all vessels report any suspicious activity to their company security department and to UKMTO.

US Central Command Conducts Operation in Red Sea to Neutralize Threats

  The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) announced a successful operation conducted on March 18, 2024, in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen. Between 1:00 p.m. and 7:40 p.m. (Sanaa time), CENTCOM forces engaged and destroyed the following: Seven anti-ship missiles Three unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) Three weapons storage containers According to CENTCOM, this operation was carried out in self-defense as these weapons posed an imminent threat to merchant vessels and US Navy ships operating in the Red Sea. The press release emphasizes that these actions were taken to safeguard freedom of navigation and ensure the security of international waters for both commercial and military vessels.

Man Overboard in Messina Strait - Italian Coast Guard Issues Distress Call

Source: MRCC Roma - Italian Coast Guard The Italian Coast Guard has issued a distress call regarding a man overboard incident in the Messina Strait. Vessel:  M/V WMF EXPRESS Port of Departure:  Navodari (Midia), Romania Date and Time of Departure:  March 8, 00:52 UTC (10 days ago) IMO / MMSI:  9004413 / 630001083 Flag:  Guinea-Bissau Length / Breadth:  109 / 20 m Details: A man went overboard from a vessel sometime before the last known contact at 21:00 UTC on March 17, 2024. Last known position: Latitude 38°01'0" North, Longitude 15°03'30" East. The M/V WMF Express reported a man overboard at position 37°05'1" North, 15°05'5" East. All vessels transiting the area are urged to be vigilant and maintain a sharp lookout for any sign of the missing person. Any sightings should be reported immediately to the MRCC Roma. Ships receiving this message are requested to acknowledge receipt by email to the Italian Coast Guard, including their vessel's satel

Indian Cargo Ship Adrift in Arabian Sea

  Last Updated: Sunday, March 17, 2024 - 11:30 CET An Indian cargo ship, the MSV Varatharajan, has become disabled and is adrift in the Arabian Sea. The incident was reported to the Indian Coast Guard on March 17, 2024, at 09:25 UTC (14:55 IST). Details of the Vessel: Name:  MSV Varatharajan Registration Number:  CLR192 MMSI:  419801751 Flag:  India Type:  Cargo Length:  30.50 meters (reported by Inmarsat) / 26 meters (reported by ship registry) Breadth:  6.83 meters Crew:  8 Cause of Distress: The MSV Varatharajan is adrift due to engine failure. The failure is reported to have occurred on March 16, 2024. Location: The vessel is currently located at 11 Deg 44.20 N 073 Deg 43.36 E, which is approximately 45 nautical miles south-southwest of Kiltan Lighthouse, India. Request for Assistance: The Indian Coast Guard has requested mariners in the area to be on the lookout for the MSV Varatharajan and to render assistance if possible. Any sightings or assistance provided should be reported

Merchant Vessel Explodes Off Aden, Yemen, but Crew Safe

17/03/2024 The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) has received a report of an incident 85 nautical miles east of Aden, Yemen. The Master of a merchant vessel reported an explosion in close proximity to the vessel. Thankfully, there has not been any damage to the vessel and the crew are reported safe. The vessel is proceeding to its next port of call. Authorities are currently investigating the incident and will continue to provide updates as they become available. This incident highlights the ongoing threat of maritime piracy in the Gulf of Aden. While there has not been a significant increase in piracy attacks in the region recently, it is important to remain vigilant and take appropriate precautions.

Ice Alert - Labrador Sea

 ⚠️ Ice Alert - Labrador Sea (Received 2024-03-15 20:18:16 UTC) Icebergs reported in the Western North Atlantic, Labrador Sea: A. 48-28.13N 052-29.34W B. 48-36.23N 052-15.50W Mariners exercise caution.

Merchant Vessel Reports Explosion in the Indian Ocean Off the Coast of Yemen

  March 15, 2024 - The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) has issued an update on an incident in the Indian Ocean, west of Al Hudaydah, Yemen. Earlier on March 15, UKMTO reported receiving information regarding an incident in the area. Authorities were investigating the nature of the incident. In an update released today, UKMTO reported that the master of a merchant vessel reported an explosion some distance away from the ship. There were no injuries to the crew and the vessel sustained no damage. The merchant vessel is continuing on its voyage to its next port of call. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident. Important Details: Location: 65 nautical miles west of Al Hudaydah, Yemen Date: March 15, 2024 Reported By: Master of a merchant vessel Incident: Explosion (some distance away from the vessel) Injuries: None Damage to Vessel: None Recommendations: UKMTO advises all vessels in the area to exercise caution and report any suspicious activi

Warning Issued for Potential Pirate Activity Near Somalia

  March 15, 2024 - The International Maritime Bureau (IMB) Piracy Reporting Centre (PRC) issued a warning message today regarding potential pirate activity involving the M/V RUEN cargo ship. Hijacked Vessel and Potential Mothership: The message highlights the recent hijacking of the Bangladeshi bulk carrier M/V Abdullah by Somali pirates on March 14th. The vessel is currently anchored off the north-central coast of Somalia with its 23 crew members taken hostage. The warning further raises concerns about the M/V RUEN, a Maltese-flagged bulk carrier. As of March 15th, 14:05 UTC, the M/V RUEN was reported sailing westward in the Arabian Sea at approximately 05°50' North and 53°49' East, roughly 270 nautical miles east-southeast of Eyl, Somalia. Authorities believe there is a possibility the M/V RUEN may be acting as a mothership, a larger vessel used by pirates to support attacks on other ships. Recommendations for Vessels: Due to these concerns, the IMB PRC urges all ships tran

75 People Reported Missing in Mediterranean Sea, Search Underway

  March 15, 2024 - The Italian Coast Guard, acting on behalf of the Libyan Navy Coast Guard, issued a distress call today regarding 75 people reported missing in the Mediterranean Sea. According to the Search and Rescue (SAR) case number 234, these individuals have been missing for the past seven days. The exact location of the missing is not specified in the message. The Italian Coast Guard is urging all vessels transiting the Mediterranean Sea to maintain a sharp lookout for any signs of distress. If a sighting is made, mariners are instructed to contact the Joint Rescue Coordination Center (JRCC) Libya for further instructions. Important Note: Ships that receive this message are requested to acknowledge receipt by email to IMRCC Rome, including their vessel's satellite phone number. This is a developing situation. Further updates will be provided as they become available.