In the Gulf of Aden, one of the pirate groups that had been attacking ships for several days has ceased its operations. According to information obtained from Somalia’s Puntland region, the pirates were forced to abandon the “Fahad-4” dhow-type vessel they had seized after running out of supplies and due to increased security measures in the area.
The 11-member group had hijacked the UAE-owned vessel at the end of April and began using it as a “mother ship.” On April 28, they launched an attack on the 105,475 DWT oil tanker Minerva Pisces, but the attempt failed due to resistance from armed security personnel on board.
At least three commercial vessels — Eureka, Honour 25, and Sward — are still reported to be under pirate control. The pirates are reportedly seeking direct negotiations with state representatives regarding the crews they have taken hostage.
Experts link the resurgence of piracy to rising oil prices and shifting international attention toward Houthi activity in Yemen. International organizations are advising vessels to avoid Somali waters.
