Alert

Suspicious Activity

Nov. 7, 2026, 7:47 p.m.

ALERT 172/26 MSCIO has received information regarding a suspicious incident at approximately 22:45 UTC on 6 November 2026, in position 12°46.4’N 043°18.0’E, in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. A merchant vessel reported observing a small radar target heading northbound towards Yemen, outside the Traffic Separation Scheme. The target could not be visually identified and appeared to be operating without navigation lights. At approximately 22:45 UTC, a large explosion was observed at the target’s position, followed by a fire on the sea surface lasting more than 30 minutes. No distress calls or radio communications were reported. The identity of the target, the cause of the explosion and 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.