UPDATE 02: The bulk carrier was reportedly boarded via boarding ladders. The crew exited the citadel and confirmed damage to the vessel. The boarding ladders remained attached to the vessel’s side. The whereabouts of the perpetrators was not confirmed. Ambrey assessed it likely that the offenders had departed the bulk carrier and were attempting to engage other merchant shipping.
ADVICE: Merchant vessels are advised that a suspected pirate action group is active in the vicinity of the IRTC. Vessels should enhance watchkeeping, proceed with caution, adhere to BMP-MS, and engage private armed security where permissible.
UPDATE 01: A St. Vincent & Grenadine-flagged bulk carrier was reportedly approached by a skiff carrying armed personnel. The crew of the bulker was reported safe in the citadel. Ambrey observed the vessel drifting in the eastbound lane of the International Recommended Transit Corridor. The vessel was enroute from Aden, Yemen, to Tuticorin, India, and had an estimated freeboard of 3.7m at the time.
ADVICE: Merchant vessels are advised to enhance watchkeeping in the Gulf of Aden, maintain a safe distance from this vessel, and to report any unusual or suspicious activity. Vessels assessed to be vulnerable are advised to consider the use of private armed security teams.
Ambrey is aware of an incident 72NM southwest of Balhaf, Yemen. Ambrey is investigating and will provide updates when available.
