On February 17, 2025, suspected pirates attacked a Yemeni dhow off Garmaal, Somalia. EUNAVFOR Atalanta is investigating this incident and coordinating with local maritime forces. This attack follows a hijacking incident that occurred on February 9, with heightened monitoring measures now advised for vessels in the area.
On February 17, 2025, a suspected pirate attack targeted a Yemeni-flagged dhow off the coast of Garmaal, near Eyl, Puntland, Somalia. The European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) Atalanta has confirmed it is investing the incident and coordinating closely with the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), the Yemeni Coast Guard, and the Puntland Maritime Police Force (PMPF).
In the wake of this incident, security forces are actively monitoring the situation, providing updates to shipping operators via the Maritime Security Centre Indian Ocean (MSCIO) website. This attack follows a previous hijacking of another Yemeni vessel, Al Najma, which was seized on February 9, 2025, while carrying 12 crew members.
EUNAVFOR Atalanta initiated a search operation that led to the pirates fleeing after robbing the crew; Al Najma was freed on February 13. Following these events, officials have urged merchant vessels and other susceptible ships to register with the MSCIO’s Voluntary Registration Scheme (VRS) for improved monitoring and quicker action during security threats.
Additionally, EUNAVFOR has been conducting “Friendly Approaches” with fishermen at sea to provide security guidance and build trust. Although piracy incidents had decreased significantly in early 2024, recent events have prompted a renewed focus on maritime security in the region.
The recent pirate attacks near the coast of Puntland, Somalia, highlight continuing maritime security challenges affecting Yemeni fishing vessels. EUNAVFOR is taking proactive measures by coordinating with local maritime forces and encouraging vessels to register with MSCIO for better monitoring. Safety initiatives and direct engagement with fishing crews are ongoing to improve security in the area.
Original Source: www.marineinsight.com
