NAIROBI: Somali pirates have seized a cargo ship off the coast of Somalia, maritime security monitors reported on Monday.
The incident marks the latest piracy attack in the region as maritime threats rise again around the Horn of Africa.
According to alerts from the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) and the EU Maritime Security Center Indian Ocean (MSCIO), eight people boarded and took control of a merchant vessel near Marraye, Somalia.
The monitors did not identify the ship.
However, MSCIO said the crew remained safe at the time of its report.
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Somali Piracy Returns
Piracy once posed a major threat to international shipping off Somalia.
The problem reached its peak in 2011. International naval deployments and improved security measures by commercial vessels later brought attacks down sharply.
However, Somali pirates have become active again this year.
Recent incidents have raised fresh concerns about maritime security in the waters around Somalia and the wider Horn of Africa.
Several Ships Seized in Recent Months
Pirates seized three tankers carrying oil and fertilizer in April and May, according to the report.
The vessels remain off the Somali coast.
In July, pirates also seized a chemical tanker in Yemeni waters. They later took the vessel toward the Somali coast.
These incidents have increased concerns among shipping operators and maritime security agencies.
Red Sea Shipping Faces More Risks
The latest seizure also comes as shipping faces growing risks in the Red Sea.
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The Red Sea has become an increasingly important route for global trade amid disruptions elsewhere in the region.
Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has added further pressure to regional shipping networks.
As a result, vessels using routes around the Arabian Peninsula face a more complex security environment.
The resurgence of Somali piracy could further increase insurance costs, security concerns and operational risks for international shipping companies.
