A tanker reported an attempted armed boarding by a small boat off the coast of Yemen, United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed. The incident took place approximately 50 nautical miles southeast of Al Shihr.

According to UKMTO, five armed individuals aboard a skiff approached the tanker with apparent intent to board the vessel. In response, the tanker’s crew carried out evasive maneuvers and altered course to avoid the skiff. Following the incident, the ship continued its journey to the next scheduled port without further disturbance.

Both the vessel and its crew were reported safe, and no injuries or damages were disclosed. The motives behind the attempted boarding have not been clarified. Maritime authorities regularly monitor the area due to its history of piracy and armed attacks on commercial shipping.

The UKMTO continues to issue warnings and updates concerning security threats in critical shipping lanes around the Arabian Peninsula, urging vessels to exercise caution and follow recommended procedures when transiting the region.