Authorities have confirmed the hijacking of a Chinese-owned fishing vessel with 18 crew members off the northeastern coast of Somalia.
The incident reportedly occurred last week, and the vessel is now being held in Puntland, Somalia’s semi-autonomous region.
While piracy in Somali waters has significantly declined in recent years due to international maritime efforts, this incident signals a potential resurgence of security threats in the region.
Puntland authorities and possibly federal officials are likely working to address the situation and ensure the safe release of the crew.
More details on the motives behind the hijacking or the demands of those involved remain unclear at this time.
This situation may prompt increased scrutiny of fishing activities in the region, as disputes over fishing rights and the presence of foreign vessels in Somali waters have been a source of tension in the past.