Alert

Piracy

May 23, 2026, 9:10 p.m.

ALERT 55/26 On 23 May 2026 between approximately 0215 UTC and 0325 UTC, two merchant vessels transiting within the IRTC in the vicinity of position 13°33’N 050°28’E, approximately 200NM west of Socotra, reported being approached by the same suspicious skiff with five persons onboard. The skiff reportedly approached to within 100–200 meters of the vessels and followed one vessel for approximately three minutes before departing the area after the deployment of the vessel’s Armed Security Team. While investigations into the incidents are ongoing, vessels operating in the area are strongly advised to maintain heightened vigilance, adhere to BMP-MS, and report immediately any suspicious activity or relevant information to MSCIO and UKMTO. UPDATE01: Following investigations conducted by Operation ATALANTA assets, evidence has been identified indicating that the suspicious skiff reported in the vicinity of position 13°33’N 050°28’E, approximately 200NM west of Socotra, is assessed to be a Pirate Action Group (PAG) actively attempting to hijack merchant vessels transiting the area. Operation ATALANTA assets are currently monitoring the activity. Vessels operating in the area are strongly advised to maintain heightened vigilance, adhere to BMP-MS, and report immediately any suspicious activity or relevant information to MSCIO and UKMTO. UPDATE02: Operation ATALANTA assets have confirmed that the Pirate Action Group (PAG) previously reported in the vicinity of position 13°33’N 050°28’E has been successfully disrupted by an Indian Naval warship and is no longer considered a threat to vessels operating in the area. Vessels are nevertheless advised to maintain vigilance, adhere to BMP-MS, and report immediately any suspicious activity or relevant information to MSCIO and UKMTO.