The European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) has issued a warning of a potential resurgence in Somali piracy after a suspected Pirate Action Group (PAG) departed from Somalia’s northern central coast. This marks the first significant pirate threat in the region after a five-month break.
In a statement, EUNAVFOR’s Maritime Security Centre – Horn of Africa (MSCHOA) alerted shipping vessels: “OPERATION ATALANTA has received information of a possible PAG consisting of 13 armed pirates departing from Ceel Huur, Ivo Hobyo, last evening and heading toward the Indian Ocean. All vessels are advised to proceed with caution and report any suspicious activity.”
The last reported pirate incident occurred on June 7, 2024, involving a suspicious approach on the Marshall Islands-flagged cargo ship Pacific Honor.
Martin Kelly, Head of Advisory at EOS Risk Group, attributed the recent lull in activity to monsoon season weather conditions.
“Now that the weather has improved, EOS Risk Group has warned its clients that Somali piracy is likely to return,” Kelly said.
This latest warning comes amid a broader resurgence of Somali piracy, which began in November 2023, including hijackings of dhow and fishing vessels.
Two commercial ships were also hijacked: the MV Ruen in December 2023, rescued after a three-month hostage situation by the Indian Navy, and the MV Abdullah in March 2024, reportedly released after a ransom payment.
The International Maritime Bureau (IMB) has sounded alarms, documenting eight Somali piracy incidents, including three hijackings, in the first half of 2024.
A growing concern is the pirates’ ability to strike far from the Somali coast, with attacks reported up to 800 nautical miles offshore.
Authorities believe hijacked vessels are being used as “mother ships,” allowing pirates to launch attacks at greater distances.
This resurgence also coincides with increased Houthi attacks on shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, forcing ships to take longer routes around the Cape of Good Hope.
Kelly noted that fewer naval resources are available for counter-piracy operations in the region but praised the Indian Navy’s efforts in liberating hijacked vessels.
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