A fuel Tanker Seized in the Gulf of Aden

Mogadishu ( WDN) — A fuel tanker has reportedly been seized in the Gulf of Aden after six-armed men boarded the vessel and took control of its movement, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), raising fresh concerns over maritime security along one of the world’s most strategically important shipping routes.

UKMTO said the incident occurred approximately 136 nautical miles east of Al Mukalla, Yemen, after the tanker reported an emergency situation when an unauthorized boat approached the vessel.

In an updated advisory, UKMTO said six-armed individuals subsequently boarded the tanker and took control of the ship, directing it toward the Somali coast. Authorities are investigating the incident.

The identity of the vessel has not yet been disclosed. Its name, flag, cargo and the precise condition of its crew remain unknown.