Suspected Somali Pirate Attack on Yemeni-Flagged Dhow

Photo by EU Naval Force Operation ATALANTA

A Yemeni-flagged dhow has reportedly been attacked by a suspected pirate attack off the coast of Eyl, Puntland, according to the European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) Operation ATALANTA. Eyl District is located to the west of Garacad Port.

The attack took place on February 9 and is currently under investigation. EUNAVFOR ATALANTA has stated that it is coordinating with maritime security partners in the region to assess the situation.

Pirates have frequently used hijacked dhows as "mother ships" to launch attacks deep into the Indian Ocean.

Throughout 2024, Operation ATALANTA recorded multiple incidents in the Somali Basin and Gulf of Aden, including four merchant vessel boardings and two hijackings. In January 2025, a Chinese fishing vessel was hijacked off the Puntland coast but was later reported as "liberated."

Maritime security analysts warn that successful ransom payments may encourage further piracy attacks, increasing risks for commercial shipping in the region.

EUNAVFOR ATALANTA advises merchant and vulnerable vessels to register with the Maritime Security Centre for the Indian Ocean’s (MSCIO) Voluntary Registration Scheme (VRS) for improved monitoring and response coordination.

The situation continues to develop, with international naval forces maintaining heightened vigilance in the region