Priority Broadcast Alert – Indian Ocean Region

UPDATE01: Ambrey subsequently received confirmation that the bulk carrier was Liberia-flagged and Greek-owned. At the time of the incident, the vessel was underway at 11kts and had an estimated freeboard of 6m. The vessel was en route from Hamburg, Germany, to Paradip, India.<br/><br/>A Liberia-flagged bulk carrier was approached, within the IRTC, by seven “heavily armed” individuals onboard a black-hulled skiff approximately 96 NM southwest of Al Mukalla, Yemen. The skiff approached and closed within approximately 10 metres of the vessel and demonstrated an "intent to board". The bulk carrier engaged in evasive manoeuvres and increased speed. Reportedly there was an armed security team onboard the bulk carrier. Subsequently, the seven individuals stopped their approach. All crew were accounted for and reported as safe. At the time of writing, no further incidents had been reported in the area of interest. Ambrey is investing the incident and no further approach on any merchant vessel was reported.<br/><br/>ADVICE: Ambrey advises merchant vessels to increase vigilance, ensure adherence to BMP, and to engage armed security where possible if the vessel has a permissible freeboard. Vessels should report sightings of any suspicious activity or vessels to Ambrey immediately.<br/>