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 transiting in or near Somalia, the Arabian Sea, the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, and the Indian Ocean to:

• Maintain a safe distance from the M/V RUEN.
• Exercise extreme caution and remain vigilant.
• Implement strict anti-piracy measures and maintain a watch for suspicious activity.
• Report any attacks or suspicious sightings to local authorities and the IMB PRC as per IMO Circular 1334.