Incident involving a dhow, Somalia
Issued: 4 months, 3 weeks ago
| Date | Reference | Region | Category | Aggressors | Source |
| 2026-04-09 13:17:00 | CW Alert 004- (Apr 26) | Indian Ocean | Maritime incident | Local Authorities | MSCIO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| It has been reported by MSCIO that a dhow has been hijacked by probable pirates whilst operating in the vicinity of Bargal, northern Somalia (Horn of Africa) (exact location not specified). The report states that it is highly likely the vessel is to be used as a mothership. The probable pirates are reportedly wearing military uniform and conducting VHF calls to vessels. Any vessel receiving suspicious VHF calls while transiting the area is encouraged to report immediately to MSCIO. Vessels operating in the area are strongly advised to avoid transiting within the northeast region of Somalia, between the Horn of Africa and Socotra Island. OPERATION ATALANTA is investigating. UPDATE 1: EUNAVFOR ATALANTA has located the dhow and is monitoring the situation. Until further information becomes available, vessels have been advised to avoid transiting close to the Horn of Africa area. UPDATE 2: The MSCIO have completed further investigations in coordination with the Puntland Maritime Police force which has assessed the incident is unrelated to any Pirate Action Group and is considered to have been carried out by local authorities. No threat to merchant shipping is envisaged at this time. | |||||