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International shipping lanes are once again under threat as Somali pirates make a return to the Indian Ocean. With the monsoon season drawing to a close, 13 armed pirates have departed from Ceel Huur near Hobyo and are reportedly now hunting for targets. This move, reported by both the European Union’s naval force in the area and security specialists at EOS Risk Group, marks the first pirate vessel spotted since early June 2024.
Warnings About Pirates from Maritime Security Authorities
The Maritime Security Centre – Horn of Africa (MSCHOA) issued an alert to all vessels operating in the region, advising caution and encouraging them to report any suspicious activity. The resurgence of Somali piracy activity is a notable escalation after several years of relative calm. Last year, the hijacking of the Iranian-flagged fishing vessel Almeraj 1 marked a significant increase in piracy in the region.
Recent Incident Involving a Chinese Bulk Carrier and Pirates
In a related incident, the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that the Chinese-flagged bulk vessel Huan Hang 99 was approached by five small vessels south of Aden. The vessel’s onboard security team fired warning shots, deterring the approaching boats. Authorities are investigating whether the vessels came from Yemen or Somalia, as piracy risks remain high in both regions.
International Call for Vigilance
The resurgence of Somali piracy raises concerns for shipping security in the Horn of Africa. The maritime community, including security agencies and ship operators, is being urged to strengthen vigilance, enhance security measures, and prioritize safety protocols.