Resurgence of Somali Piracy: EUNAVFOR Alerts Shipping Industry
The European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) Operation ATALANTA has reported the departure of a suspected pirate action group (PAG) from Somalia’s northern central coast, indicating a renewed threat to shipping in the region and a potential resurgence of Somali piracy after a five-month period of inactivity.
EUNAVFOR’s Maritime Security Centre – Horn of Africa (MSCHOA) issued a warning about a possible PAG of 13 armed pirates that left Ceel Huur (El Hur) heading towards the Indian Ocean. All vessels in the area are advised to exercise caution and report any suspicious activities.
The last recorded incident of piracy in the region was on June 7, 2024, involving a suspicious approach to the Marshall Islands-flagged cargo ship PACIFIC HONOR. Martin Kelly, Head of Advisory at EOS Risk Group, explained that the previous lull in piracy was due to adverse weather conditions during the monsoon season. With improved weather, EOS Risk Group has cautioned clients that Somali piracy is likely to resurface.
This warning is part of a broader resurgence of Somali piracy that began in November 2023, following several hijackings of dhows and fishing vessels. Notably, the MV Ruen was hijacked in mid-December 2023 and rescued by the Indian Navy after three months, while the MV Abdullah was hijacked in March and released a month later, reportedly after a ransom was paid.
The International Maritime Bureau (IMB) has raised concerns about the ongoing threat of Somali piracy, reporting eight incidents in the first half of 2024, including three hijackings. A significant worry is the pirates’ ability to operate far from the Somali coast, with reports of pirate activity occurring up to 800 nautical miles offshore.
Authorities believe that hijacked dhows and fishing vessels are being used as “mother ships,” allowing pirates to launch attacks from greater distances. The resurgence of Somali piracy coincides with an increase in Houthi attacks on shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, forcing vessels to take longer routes around the Cape of Good Hope.
Kelly noted that the current regional situation has resulted in fewer ships being deployed for counter-piracy operations in the Indian Ocean, making it easier for pirates to escape, although the Indian Navy has successfully liberated several hijacked vessels over the past year.
Shipping companies are urged to adopt strict security measures and maintain vigilant monitoring when navigating through these high-risk areas.
