Alert

Suspicious Activity

July 21, 2026, 2:56 p.m.

ALERT 81/26 MSCIO has received reports of suspicious activity between 06:03 UTC and 06:40 UTC on 21 July 2026 in the Bab el Mandeb / IRTC. A merchant vessel reported a suspected approach by one skiff with six persons onboard, with ammunition reportedly visible, at position 12°03’N 044°57’E. The vessel increased speed and the skiff followed for about five minutes before departing the area. At 06:36 UTC, the same vessel also reported one small craft with eight armed persons wearing military uniforms passing within 0.7NM at position 12°05’N 044°50’E, without making an approach. Separately, at 06:40 UTC, another merchant vessel reported two armed speedboats, each carrying three persons, with heavy weapons onboard, at position 12°33’N 043°29’E, near the entrance to the Bab el Mandeb. The vessel increased speed and altered course to pass clear. Vessels operating in the area are strongly advised to maintain heightened vigilance, adhere to BMP-MS, and report immediately any suspicious activity or relevant information to MSCIO and UKMTO.