Armed men open fire on cargo ship near Yemen, vessel's security team thwarts attack

The incident occurred around 88 nautical miles south-west of Yemen's Balhaf, UKMTO said in a security alert. According to a report submitted by its master, the cargo ship's security team responded to the threat as the unidentified boat approached the vessel.

In Short

• A cargo ship's security team thwarts attack on the vessel near Yemen
• The ship was sailing about 88 nautical miles south-west of Balhaf
• 6 armed individuals in a small craft approached it and opened fire

A cargo vessel came under attack from six armed individuals aboard a small boat off the coast of Yemen, prompting the merchant ship's security team to return fire, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).

The incident occurred around 88 nautical miles south-west of Yemen's Balhaf, UKMTO said in a security alert.

According to a report submitted by its master, the cargo ship's security team responded to the threat as the unidentified boat approached the vessel.

The armed security personnel retaliated after the attackers opened fire, leading to a brief exchange of gunfire.

Following the confrontation, the small craft turned away and departed the area, UKMTO said. No casualties or damage were reported in the initial assessment.

In its advisory, the UKMTO urged ships operating in the region to exercise extreme caution, maintain a high level of vigilance, and immediately report any suspicious activity.

The incident highlights ongoing maritime security risks in waters off Yemen. The alert comes amid heightened tensions and increased security concerns across key shipping routes in the Gulf of Aden and surrounding waters.

- Ends
(With reports from agencies)