Alert

Suspicious Activity

Nov. 3, 2026, 7:59 p.m.

ALERT 168/26 MSCIO has received information regarding a suspicious activity incident at approximately 07:45 UTC on 3 November 2026, near position 12°31.7’N 043°39.06’E, in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. A merchant vessel reported observing a large floating object, possibly a boat, surrounded by smoke. Nearby vessels also reported the presence of the object. No distress calls were reported. The circumstances of the incident remain unknown. 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.