British Authority Reports Maritime Incident Off Yemen

The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) announced on Wednesday receiving a report of a maritime incident 76 nautical miles south of Balhaf, southeastern Yemen. The authority’s advisory notice stated a vessel's security officer reported several small boats approaching, carrying individuals with light weapons. UKMTO clarified the crew gathered in the safe protection room, the "Citadel," and are secure. The authority also noted a nearby vessel's captain reported via Channel 16 hearing light weapon gunfire, though this information remains unconfirmed. UKMTO is investigating the incident and advises vessels to exercise caution, reporting any suspicious activity. This occurs amid ongoing security tension in Yemen's surrounding maritime lanes, leading international bodies to issue repeated warnings to commercial vessels.