By HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU — A commercial vessel sailing in the waters east of Mogadishu, Somalia, reported an attempted boarding by unauthorized individuals on Monday, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).
In a statement, UKMTO said: “The Master reports that four unauthorized persons attempted to board his vessel. All crew are reported safe and transiting to the next port of call. Authorities are investigating. Vessels are advised to transit with caution.”
The incident underscores ongoing security risks in the Gulf of Aden and the broader Somali coastline, a region long plagued by piracy, armed robberies at sea, and other maritime threats. While Somali authorities and international naval forces have significantly reduced piracy incidents in recent years, sporadic attacks and attempted boardings continue to pose dangers to commercial shipping.
No injuries or damage were reported, and the vessel reportedly continued its journey under heightened security protocols. UKMTO has urged all ships in the area to maintain vigilance, employ anti-piracy measures, and report any suspicious activity immediately.
Maritime security analysts say that such attempts often involve small, fast boats manned by armed individuals seeking to hijack cargo or demand ransom. Ships transiting the Somali waters are advised to maintain strict anti-boarding procedures, including the use of safe rooms, increased watch rotations, and coordination with naval patrols in the region.
International shipping companies operating in the area frequently liaise with regional naval forces and security firms to mitigate risks, but the threat of maritime crime remains a significant concern for vessels transporting goods through one of the world’s busiest shipping corridors.
Authorities continue to investigate the attempted boarding, while the vessel proceeds to its next port under enhanced security measures. Regional maritime bodies have reiterated the importance of reporting incidents promptly to UKMTO and other international monitoring agencies to ensure timely intervention and assistance.
