Bulk carrier seized by pirates docks near Somalia

The European Union’s Operation ATALANTA is currently monitoring the hijacking of the Bangladesh-flagged bulk carrier M/V Abdullah by Somali pirates in the Indian Ocean. The ship was taken over by armed pirates 600 nautical miles east of Mogadishu and is currently anchored off the north-central coast of Somalia. The 23 crew members are reported to be safe but still held hostage.

EUNAVFOR Operation ATALANTA has been closely monitoring the situation since the first warning of the kidnapping, with visual intelligence showing at least twelve confirmed pirates on board the ship. There are concerns that this group of pirates may be linked to a previous hijacking incident involving the ship M/V Ruen. Authorities have identified three groups of suspected pirates operating from mother ships along the Somali coast, with operational ranges extending up to 1,000 nautical miles from Somalia.

Recent incidents suggest a resurgence in Somalia-based piracy, following years of relative calm. The shipping industry recently removed the “high-risk area” designation for the Indian Ocean, reflecting improved piracy conditions. However, the resurgence of piracy poses a threat to shipping in the region, compounded by other security challenges such as Houthi attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Vessels transiting the area are advised to implement heightened security measures and stay informed of potential threats through maritime security organizations.

Source .