Tanker seized by armed men in Gulf of Aden, diverted to Somalia

A tanker was hijacked in the Gulf of Aden approximately 136 nautical miles east of Yemen’s Al Mukalla, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).

The agency reported that the westbound vessel sent a distress signal after an unauthorised vessel approached it.

It later said six armed men had boarded the tanker, taken control of the vessel and were directing it toward Somalia.

“UKMTO have received confirmation that the tanker has been boarded by six armed persons who are now in control of the vessel and redirecting to Somalia. Authorities are investigating. Vessels are advised to transit with caution and report any suspicious activity to UKMTO,” the agency wrote.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov