ALBAWABA- Several small boats carrying armed individuals approached a merchant vessel approximately 76 nautical miles south of Belhaf in southeastern Yemen, prompting the crew to retreat to the ship's citadel as a precaution, the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said on Wednesday.
According to a UKMTO advisory, the vessel's security officer reported that the approaching boats were carrying individuals armed with light weapons. The vessel's operator confirmed that all crew members were safely sheltered inside the ship's protected safe room.
A nearby vessel's captain reported over radio that small arms fire had been exchanged during the incident, although UKMTO said it has not independently verified that account. The agency said authorities are investigating the incident.
UKMTO urged all vessels operating in the area to exercise extreme caution and immediately report any suspicious activity.
The incident highlights continuing security risks in waters surrounding Yemen, including the Gulf of Aden, the southern Red Sea, and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, where commercial shipping has faced repeated attacks in recent years.
No group has claimed responsibility for the incident, and the identity, flag, and cargo of the targeted vessel were not immediately disclosed. The investigation remains ongoing.
