A merchant vessel was illegally boarded by four armed individuals in the Gulf of Aden off the coast of Yemen, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). The incident occurred approximately 76 nautical miles south of Balhaf, Yemen, where the attackers reportedly boarded the vessel from a small craft after initially approaching it under suspicious circumstances.

Following an investigation, UKMTO reported that the armed individuals caused damage to the vessel's bridge and several adjacent compartments before leaving the ship. The crew followed emergency security procedures by taking shelter inside the vessel's citadel and were later confirmed to be safe. The attackers were reportedly carrying a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG), and the small craft remained active in the area after the incident.

More than two hours later, another merchant vessel navigating approximately 85 nautical miles south of Balhaf reported a separate suspicious approach. According to the vessel's master, a small craft carrying four individuals came within about two nautical miles before turning away and continuing south. No injuries or damage were reported, and the vessel safely continued its voyage.

The two incidents have renewed concerns over maritime security in the Gulf of Aden, a key international shipping route connecting the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea. Despite a recent period with no confirmed maritime security incidents, regional authorities have continued to warn that the threat posed by hostile small craft remains present in the area.

UKMTO has advised all vessels transiting the region to maintain heightened vigilance, implement appropriate security measures, and promptly report any suspicious activity to maritime authorities. Investigations into both incidents are ongoing.