Alert

Suspicious Activity

Oct. 17, 2026, 3:08 p.m.

ALERT 149/26 MSCIO has received information regarding a suspicious activity incident involving a merchant vessel on 17 October 2026, at approximately 12°54’N 047°56’E, in the Gulf of Aden. A small craft carrying seven persons reportedly armed with rifles approached the vessel to within approximately 100 metres of its starboard quarter and opened fire, prompting the embarked armed security team to fire warning shots. No ladders or hooks were observed by the vessel. The small craft subsequently moved away. The vessel and crew are reported safe. Vessels operating in the area are advised to maintain heightened vigilance, adhere to BMP-MS, and report immediately any suspicious activity or relevant information to MSCIO and UKMTO.