Merchant Vessel Reports Suspicious Approach in Arabian Sea

On April 9th, 2024, a merchant vessel traveling south in the Red Sea reported two skiffs approaching them approximately five miles away.

The merchant vessel increased speed and altered course to create distance. After what appeared to be a 30-minute pursuit, the skiffs turned away.

Increased Pirate Activity in Somalia

This incident follows reports of at least 20 dhows being hijacked off the coast of Somalia since November 2023. In March 2024, EUNAVFOR's Operation Atalanta identified potential pirate camps along the Somali coastline between Cape Hafun and Garacad. Additionally, local sources report a rise in pirate activity between the Hobyo, Nugal, and Mudug regions. These developments suggest that several Pirate Action Groups (PAGs) may be operating in the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean, ranging from the Gulf of Aden north of Socotra to 800 nautical miles offshore Somalia. Somali pirates have successfully hijacked at least three commercial vessels since November 2023.

Mariners are advised to avoid the area where the suspicious approach occurred and exercise extreme caution when sailing in the vicinity.

When navigating the region, vessels are strongly encouraged to maintain a heightened state of awareness and implement self-protection measures outlined in Best Management Practice Version 5 (BMP5) from June 2018.

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