UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported two security incidents in waters
south of Balhaf, Yemen on July 1 local time. In the first, four armed
individuals in a skiff approached and illegally boarded a merchant vessel,
damaging the wheelhouse and accommodation; crew sheltered in the citadel and are
reported safe. The skiff later left but remained in the area. In the second
incident a skiff approached a tanker about 85 nm south of Balhaf before
departing south; crew and vessel continued on their voyage. UKMTO said
authorities are investigating and urged transiting vessels to increase vigilance
and report suspicious activity.
