Fears of resurgence in Somali piracy after three vessels hijacked in past week
Three vessels have been hijacked off the coast of Somalia within a week, sparking concerns of a resurgence in regional piracy amid reduced international naval presence. The attacks include the 26 April seizure of the cement carrier Sward, which was taken near Garacad with 17 crew members aboard. Heightened activity coincides with global shipping disruptions from Red Sea conflicts and diverted naval resources. Pirate networks appear better equipped and coordinated, using advanced technology and land-based support networks.
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The motor vessel Sward was hijacked on Sunday. Photograph: EU Naval Force Operation ATALANTAView image in fullscreenThe motor vessel Sward was hijacked on Sunday. Photograph: EU Naval Force Operation ATALANTASomaliaFears of resurgence in Somali piracy after three vessels hijacked in past weekPirates appear to be taking advantage of international naval strength being diverted elsewhere in regionMohamed Gabobe in Mogadishu and Rachel SavageTue 28 Apr 2026 12.20 EDTLast modified on Tue 28 Apr 2026 12.22 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleThree vessels have been hijacked off the coast of Somalia in the past week, raising fears of a resurgence in piracy around the Horn of Africa – and adding to the woes of the global shipping industry.The merchant vessel Sward was taken over on 26 April, a…
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