Image for representation purposes only A possible hijacking of a dhow has been reported off the southern coast of Somalia, just hours after maritime authorities warned of increased pirate activity in the region. The incident, which is under investigation, is believed to have taken place near position 0 0°13’S 044°18’E on 09 May 2026, while the vessel was transiting towards Kismayo. The Maritime Security Centre Indian Ocean (MSCIO) confirmed receiving reports that the dhow was boarded and possibly taken over by an armed piracy group. The Operation ATALANTA is currently investigating the situation in coordination with regional maritime security authorities and partners. The incident occurred shortly after an earlier alert issued on 8 May, warning that another Pirate Action Group (PAG) could attempt a hijacking in waters near 09°50’N 050°54’E. Vessels had been advised to maintain heightened vigilance and follow BMP-MS procedures, particularly within 150 nautical miles off the Somali coast between Mogadishu and Hafun, and to report suspicious activity to both MSCIO and the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) . Increased Pirate Activity According to MSCIO updates, the suspected seizure involved a dhow operating in waters off southern Somalia. The vessel was reportedly inbound for Kismayo when it was boarded and taken over by armed individuals believed to be linked to piracy networks. Authorities have noted that pirate groups in the region have increasingly used small dhows as “motherships” to extend their operational reach and blend into normal coastal traffic, making detection more difficult. In response, MSCIO and Operation ATALANTA have renewed calls for merchant vessels to maintain strict security measures, especially in high-risk waters off Somalia. Shipping operators have also been urged to avoid the area where possible and remain on high alert within the designated risk zone between Mogadishu and Hafun. Earlier Warning and Ongoing Threat The May 11 re