Tanker fires warning shots at approaching boat near Yemen — UKMTO

A tanker fired warning shots after a small boat carrying five people approached it in waters north of Yemen’s Socotra island, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).

The incident occurred approximately 98 nautical miles north of Socotra, UKMTO said on Friday, May 22, citing a report it had received.

In a statement, the agency said: “The CSO of a tanker has confirmed that the vessel was approached by a small craft with five persons onboard. The vessels Armed Security Team fired warning shots at the small craft which forced them to alter course. Authorities are investigating.”

No further details were immediately provided about the identity of the small vessel or the individuals on board. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the encounter.

By Tamilla Hasanova