In recent days, the European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) Atalanta has been alerted to a troubling piracy incident off the northern coast of Somalia. On March 16, 2025, a Yemeni-flagged dhow was reportedly hijacked near Durdura, close to the Eyl area in Puntland. This high-seas hijacking comes just a month after another attack that raised concerns about maritime security in the waters surrounding the region.
According to EUNAVFOR Atalanta, which is tasked with combating piracy and ensuring maritime security, the incident is currently under investigation and has been classified as a hijacking. Reports indicate that up to seven hijackers remain on board the dhow, which has a crew of eight Somali nationals. As the situation unfolds, EUNAVFOR Atalanta is coordinating closely with the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) and the Yemeni Coast Guard to monitor the event and provide assistance where needed.
The hijacking is a stark reminder of the ongoing threats posed by piracy in the region. EUNAVFOR Atalanta is not new to such challenges; this incident follows closely on the heels of the kidnapping of crew members from another Yemeni-flagged vessel, the SAYTUUN-2, which was released on February 24, 2025. That earlier attack had also highlighted the vulnerabilities of ships operating in these waters.
As part of its mission, EUNAVFOR Atalanta strongly encourages registered vessels to take part in its Voluntary Registration Scheme (VRS), which aims to enhance monitoring and response capabilities against maritime threats. The task force emphasizes the importance of participating in this scheme, arguing that it enhances their ability to respond effectively to incidents, such as the current hijacking. The Maritime Security Centre Indian Ocean (MSCIO) website has been updated with assessments and recommendations regarding the most recent piracy incidents.
Overall, the situation remains fluid, and EUNAVFOR Atalanta is committed to maintaining vigilance over piracy-related events in its area of operations. Observers note the potentially severe implications these incidents have for maritime trade and security in the region, and the need for continued international cooperation in combating piracy.
Maritime security experts highlight that despite previous successes in combating piracy off the Horn of Africa, the recent upsurge in incidents underscores the importance of robust naval presence and intelligence sharing among nations. The broader maritime community remains on alert, concerned that a resurgence in piracy could severely disrupt trade routes vital for global commerce.
In concluding, the response to piracy in these waters reflects a critical intersection of international maritime law, regional security, and the economic stability of shipping lanes that are often considered lifelines for many countries. EUNAVFOR Atalanta’s ongoing efforts and those of its partners are seen as indispensable in this fight against piracy in an area long plagued by such threats.
