Second Tanker Hijacked off Yemen in Three Months by Suspected Somali Pirates
Somali pirates have hijacked a tanker in the Gulf of Aden off the coast of Yemen, marking the second such incident in three months.
According to the UK Maritime Safety Organisation (UKMTO) and Somali security officials, a vessel was boarded by unauthorized personnel as it sailed east. The organization advised other ships to transit with caution.
Puntland Officials Identify Hijacked Tanker
Puntland security officials identified the hijacked tanker as the MT Astana, which was sailing under a Tanzanian flag. It was en route to the port of Bosaso in Puntland when it was boarded 65 nautical miles off Yemen.
Gulf of Aden: Less Protected than the Indian Ocean
Unlike the Indian Ocean, which is heavily patrolled by the European Union Naval Force, the Gulf of Aden is more lightly protected, making it an easier target for pirates.
Possible Return of Somali Piracy
This latest hijacking is part of a resurgence in piracy off the coast of Somalia. There have been several unsuccessful attacks in the region in recent months, suggesting that piracy is making a comeback.
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