The Somali Navy and Coastal Defense Force conducted a maritime patrol and surveillance operation off the coast of Hobyo district in the Mudug region, where they intercepted a vessel suspected of operating illegally within Somali waters.
According to information regarding the operation reported by the Somali National Army media, the vessel’s Automatic Identification System (AIS)—used for tracking and identification—was switched off at the time of interception. This hindered the monitoring of the vessel’s movements and identification.
The forces detained seven foreign nationals found on board; they are currently being held by the Somali Navy and Coastal Defense Force pending further investigation.
Authorities are investigating details concerning the vessel, including its country of registration, the purpose of its voyage, the nature and origin of its cargo, and the reason the AIS system was deactivated.
This operation is part of a series of maritime missions recently conducted by Somali forces along the country’s coast, aimed at bolstering security in Somali waters and combating piracy and illegal fishing. The investigation is ongoing, and the results are expected to reveal further details about the boat, the people on board, and the purpose of their journey.
So far, no official details have been provided regarding the country where the boat is registered or the type of cargo it was carrying.
