Cargo Ship Exchanges Fire with Armed Craft near Yemen in Red Sea Maritime Security Incident
A cargo ship operating southwest of Yemen reported an encounter with an armed small craft on Wednesday, resulting in an exchange of fire, according to maritime security authorities.
The incident occurred approximately 88 nautical miles southwest of Balhaf, Yemen, when a small boat carrying six armed individuals approached the commercial vessel, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported.
According to the maritime security advisory, the cargo vessel’s Armed Security Team responded after the approaching craft posed a potential threat. An exchange of fire followed, after which the small craft turned away from the vessel.
“The small craft turned away following an exchange of fire with the vessel’s Armed Security Team,” UKMTO stated in its advisory.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. No injuries, damage, or additional operational details have been disclosed at this stage.
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The event highlights ongoing maritime security concerns in waters near Yemen, a region that remains critical for international shipping, commercial cargo transport, and global supply chains. Shipping companies and vessel operators continue to monitor security developments across key maritime trade routes in the Red Sea and surrounding waters.
Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
