Pirates Pursue Bulker in Gulf of Aden
In a dramatic incident in the Gulf of Aden, pirates fired shots at a bulker during a two-hour chase. The Palau-flagged vessel’s captain reported being stalked by armed men in small boats, prompting a swift change in course towards the Yemeni coastline. Fortunately, the crew remained unharmed, and the ship continued its journey to the next port. Authorities are now investigating the alarming event.
Incident Details and Response
The incident unfolded in a maritime corridor between Yemen and Somalia, a region notorious for piracy. The master of the unnamed bulker alerted maritime security firms Africa Risk Compliance (ARC) and Diaplous Group about the pursuit. As the armed boats closed in, the captain made a critical decision to alter the ship’s course, steering towards the safety of the Yemeni coast. This maneuver successfully deterred the attackers, who eventually abandoned their pursuit.
Following the incident, the crew was reported safe, and the bulker resumed its voyage without further complications. The quick response from the captain and the crew highlights the importance of vigilance in these waters, where piracy remains a persistent threat. Maritime authorities are currently conducting an investigation to gather more details about the attackers and their motives.
Rising Piracy Threats in the Region
This incident comes amid growing concerns about piracy in the Gulf of Aden and surrounding areas. In February, maritime intelligence firm Ambrey Analytics warned of a renewed threat, noting the emergence of a suspected pirate group operating from Marreya on the Eyl coast. They urged merchant vessels to heighten their awareness and adhere to best management practices, including the use of armed security personnel when possible.
Recent reports indicate that piracy has shifted focus in recent months, with the Red Sea, West Africa, and the Singapore Strait becoming more prominent areas of concern. In January, a Chinese fishing vessel, the Liao Dong Yu, was released after being hijacked by Somali pirates in late November. This incident marked the first recorded piracy event off the Somali coast in six months, underscoring the ongoing risks faced by vessels in these waters.
As authorities continue to monitor the situation, the maritime community remains on high alert, emphasizing the need for enhanced security measures to protect seafarers and vessels navigating these perilous routes.
