Suspicious activity - 550NM Southeast of Mogadishu, Somalia

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Incident Details

Incident Date & Time:

21 November 2025, 20:47 UTC

Location:

550NM Southeast of Mogadishu, Somalia

Latitude/Longitude: 

2° 18' 25.19" N, 53° 40' 27.76" E

Vessel Name, Type, Flag and Status:

Tanker

Incident Type:

Suspicious activity

Casualties

No injuries reported

Incident Details

Description

At approximately 1615 UTC on 21 November 2025, Maritime Security Centre - Indian Ocean (MSCIO) received a report of suspicious activity 550NM southeast of Mogadishu, Somalia. A skiff was observed following a Tanker, closing to within 4NM while increasing speed and continuing to shadow the vessel. The Tanker implemented Best Management Practices - Mediterranean Sea (BMP-MS) measures and subsequently increased distance from the skiff. Operation ATALANTA is investigating this event. Vessels are advised to maintain enhanced vigilance while transiting through the area, implement BMP-MS protocols, and report any suspicious activity to MSCIO and UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).

Key findings

This incident demonstrates classic pirate reconnaissance tactics, with the skiff conducting a sustained pursuit at close range to assess the vessel's defensive posture and crew alertness. The attackers' decision to close within 4NM while increasing speed suggests they were testing the tanker's response capabilities and potentially preparing for a boarding attempt. The tanker's immediate implementation of BMP-MS measures and successful creation of distance indicates effective defensive protocols, likely including increased speed, evasive maneuvers, and enhanced watch procedures. The skiff's withdrawal after the tanker's defensive response suggests opportunistic pirates seeking vulnerable targets rather than a determined assault team.

Recommendations

-  Implement BMP-MS protocols immediately upon detecting any approaching small craft within 10NM
-  Maintain maximum safe speed and execute evasive maneuvers when shadowed by suspicious vessels

-   Report all suspicious activity to MSCIO and UKMTO while maintaining enhanced bridge watch procedures

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