MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – Four suspected Somali pirates have attempted to board a chemical tanker in the Indian Ocean on Monday, sparking renewed fears of a resurgence in piracy off Somalia.
The 44,000-dwt Stolt Sagaland (built 2008) came under fire from four armed men in a skiff about 332 miles (534 km) east of Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu, according to maritime security firm Vanguard Tech.
The attackers opened fire as they tried to approach the vessel, prompting the crew to increase speed and take evasive action.
“Fortunately, all crew members are safe, and the vessel is continuing its transit to the next port of call. Authorities are investigating the incident,” said United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).
The attempted boarding is the latest in a series of warnings about possible pirate activity off Somalia. Shipowners have been urged to remain alert following several recent sightings of suspicious vessels.
Africa Risk Compliance (ARC) reported that on Sunday there had been a “possible sighting” of a pirate group off Garacad, in Somalia’s Puntland region.
Security company Ambrey Analytics also confirmed receiving reports of a suspected pirate action group operating in the area. Regional naval forces are said to be investigating.
There have been no confirmed Somalia-based piracy incidents since April, ARC said, though it noted that sightings of potential “motherships” and small skiffs have increased in recent weeks.
“Other such reports are likely as monsoon season ends and weather conditions become more favourable for pirate groups to operate,” the company added.
Ambrey has advised merchant ships transiting the region to heighten vigilance and, where possible, employ armed security personnel.
The incident marks one of the most serious attempted attacks in Somali waters this year and comes amid concerns that improved sea conditions could see a return of pirate operations in the western Indian Ocean.
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