Gunmen In Small Boats Fire At Vessel Off Yemen, Investigation Underway

A merchant vessel sailing about 100 nautical miles east of Aden, Yemen, was being followed by several small boats carrying armed individuals on April 15, according to a report by the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).

As per the vessel’s Master, the suspicious boats trailed the ship for nearly two hours, during which gunfire was reported.

In response, the vessel changed course and headed toward the Yemeni coastline, after which the armed boats left the area.

Fortunately, all crew members are reported safe and unharmed. The vessel has resumed its voyage and is continuing toward its next scheduled port of call.

The identity of the ship and those involved in the attack have not been disclosed.

UKMTO confirmed it is investigating the matter and advised other vessels in the region to exercise caution and report any unusual activity.

This is the first such report in the area in several months.

Since November 2023, Yemen’s Houthi movement, backed by Iran, has launched over 100 attacks on international shipping.

The group claims the attacks are in support of Palestinians amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza.

During this campaign, the Houthis have sunk two ships, seized another, and are accused of killing at least four seafarers.

While there has been no immediate comment from the Houthis regarding this latest incident, the group had previously paused attacks following a ceasefire in Gaza in January.

However, they resumed operations in March, alleging that Israel had not allowed aid to pass into Gaza.

Reference: UKMTO