Alert

Piracy

April 13, 2026, 3:27 p.m.

ALERT 30/26 A dhow has reportedly been hijacked by a Probable Pirate Action Group (PAG) in the vicinity of Bargal, northern Somalia (Horn of Africa). The vessel is assessed to be highly likely used as a mothership. The PAG is reportedly wearing militar uniforms and conducting VHF calls to vessels. Any vessel receiving suspicious VHF calls while transiting the area is encouraged to report immediately to MSCIO. OP ATALANTA is investigating. Vessels are strongly advised to exercise caution when transiting in the northeastern region of Somalia, between the Horn of Africa and Socotra Island. Masters are encouraged to maintain enhanced vigilance, implement BMP-MS measures, and report any suspicious activity immediately to MSCIO and UKMTO. UPDATE01: EUNAVFOR ATALANTA has located the dhow and is monitoring the situation. Until further information becomes available, Vessels transiting in close proximity to the Horn of Africa are advised to exercise caution, maintain enhanced vigilance, and follow BMP-MS recommendations" UPDATE02: Following the initial alert, further investigations were conducted in close coordination with PMPF, including analysis of available imagery. The event has been assessed as unrelated to any Pirate Action Group (PAG) activity and it is instead considered to have been carried out by local authorities. At present, no threat to merchant shipping is envisaged.