Pirates Hijack Cargo Ship Off Somali Coast

Eight armed pirates seized control of a merchant vessel near Marraye, Somalia, on Monday, marking the latest escalation in a resurgence of maritime attacks off the Horn of Africa.

Security monitors UK Maritime Trade Operations and the EU’s Maritime Security Centre in the Indian Ocean confirmed the boarding, reporting that the ship’s crew remains safe.

The hijacking highlights a dangerous resurgence of piracy off the Somali coast after international naval operations previously suppressed the threat following its peak in 2011.

Pirates hijack cargo ship off Somali coast (News Central TV) — Pirates hijack cargo ship off Somali coast. Credit: Reuters

Somali pirates have renewed their attacks throughout 2026, seizing three tankers in April and May and capturing a chemical tanker in July.

These incidents heighten safety risks for merchant shipping across vital regional supply routes.

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Abisoye Adeyiga

Abisoye Adedoyin Adeyiga holds a PhD in Languages and Media Studies and a Master’s in Education (English Language). Trained in digital marketing and investigative journalism, she is passionate about new media’s transformative power. She enjoys reading, traveling, and meaningful conversations.