GAROWE (SD) – Reports from the Nugal region, specifically the Eyl district, indicate that armed individuals have hijacked a Yemeni-owned fishing vessel. According to multiple sources, the vessel was legally fishing in Puntland waters when it became the target of a pirate attack.

The assailants are believed to be from Eyl and are reportedly seeking a ransom, following a pattern observed in previous incidents. Puntland’s security authorities have yet to make an official statement, though officials have confirmed the hijacking.

Details about the number of crew members aboard or the current state of the vessel remain unclear, and there has been no official comment from the vessel’s owners or the Yemeni government.

This incident raises fresh concerns about piracy, despite a decline in such attacks in recent years. In November 2024, a similar hijacking of a Chinese fishing vessel off Puntland’s coast occurred, which was resolved after a ransom was paid.

Authorities are expected to address the matter soon, providing updates on the hijacked vessel and efforts to counter the resurgence of piracy.