Armed Pirates Hijack Cargo Ship Off Somalia

A cargo ship has been hijacked off the coast of Somalia after eight armed attackers boarded the vessel and seized control, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center.

UKMTO said the incident occurred approximately four nautical miles south of Mareeyo, Somalia, and was reported by the vessel’s company security officer at 1136 UTC on Monday.

Eight armed unauthorized persons boarded the unidentified cargo vessel and took control, UKMTO said. Authorities are investigating, while vessels operating in the area have been advised to transit with caution and report suspicious activity.