UKMTO reports incident north of Yemen’s Socotra
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- UKMTO reports suspicious activity near Socotra
- Small craft approaches commercial tanker
- Security team fires warning shots
- Crew safe, vessels urged to stay alert
The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) has issued a maritime security warning following a suspicious approach targeting a commercial tanker in the waters north of Socotra.
According to an official UKMTO report filed on May 22, 2026, the incident took place 98 nautical miles north of Socotra.
The Company Security Officer (CSO) of the targeted tanker confirmed that the vessel was actively approached by a small craft carrying five individuals onboard.
In response to the suspicious approach, the tanker's onboard Armed Security Team intervened, firing warning shots directly toward the small craft.
The defensive action successfully forced the individuals to alter their course away from the commercial ship.
Relevant authorities have been notified and are currently investigating the encounter.
In light of the incident, the UKMTO has advised all vessels transiting the area to proceed with caution and immediately report any further suspicious activity.
