Threat in Somali Basin updated to substantial following series of attacks

May 3 ------ Authorities have raised the threat level off Somalia’s coast to “substantial” following a surge in piracy incidents between 21 and 26 April 2026.

Taken together, these incidents point to a coordinated resurgence of piracy activity across both the Somali coast and adjacent waters, affecting multiple vessel types including fishing boats, tankers, and merchant shipping. The pattern of hijackings, armed approaches, and attempted boardings over a short period suggests increased operational confidence among pirate groups, supported by the use of small, fast craft and exploitation of favorable sea conditions.

Somali Coast and Somali Basin (Threat Level Updated to Substantial)

According to an advisory by the Joint Maritime Information Center, a Pirate Action Group is reported to be active in the Somali Basin. Vessels in the vicinity are advised to maintain heightened vigilance and review BMP-MS guidance.

On 26 April, UKMTO received a report of an incident 6NM North East of Garacad, Somalia. It was reported that unauthorised persons have taken control of a cargo vessel which has been re-directed to within territorial waters.

The situation developed over the preceding days. UKMTO has received a report of an incident dated 21 April 2026. The incident occurred 45 nautical miles northeast of Mareeyo, Somalia, where military authorities reported that unauthorised persons took control of a tanker and maneuvered the vessel 77 nautical miles south within Somali territorial waters, with the vessel’s last known position recorded at 0856N 05032E.

On 23 April, a Somali-flagged fishing vessel was hijacked near Xaafun, and an oil-products tanker, Honour 25, was also seized with 17 crew members on board.

Also on 23 April, armed attackers in small boats approached a cargo ship about 83 nautical miles south of Eyl; warning shots were fired, shots were exchanged, and the attackers eventually withdrew.

Source: safety4sea.com