In brief
Somali gunmen seized the Tanzanian‑flagged tanker MT Astana 65 nautical miles off Yemen’s coast, a second hijacking in three months. The crew of seven departed from Puntland’s Garacad and capitalised on the Gulf of Aden’s limited naval guard. UK Maritime Trade Operations and Puntland officials confirm the attack, hinting at a piracy revival after a lull in the region. The incident highlights the need for stronger maritime security around vital shipping lanes.
A Tanzanian‑flagged tanker, the MT Astana, was boarded by Somali pirates 65 nautical miles off Yemen’s coast, according to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UK‑MTO) and Puntland authorities.
This is the second hijack of a vessel off Yemen since May, when the MT Eureka was seized near Qana. Only a few ships have been attacked in the Indian Ocean this year.
The attackers – a crew of seven – travelled from Puntland’s Garacad port to the Gulf of Aden, taking control of the tanker as it sailed east.
The Gulf of Aden is less guarded than the Indian Ocean, where the EU’s Naval Force patrols. That lighter protection may be why piracy is resurfacing.
U.S., UK and other navies have kept a presence since a 3‑year‑old joint operation reduced piracy. But recent incidents suggest the problem is not fully under control.
If you want to learn more, check out BBC Africa’s podcasts or visit BBCAfrica.com.
