Fears of resurgence in Somali piracy after three vessels hijacked in past week
Three vessels have been hijacked off the coast of Somalia in the past week, raising concerns about a resurgence of piracy in the region. The international naval forces are reportedly diverted to address other conflicts, which may have emboldened pirate activities. Experts warn that these pirate networks are better equipped than before and may be preparing for prolonged operations.
- ▪The motor vessel Sward was hijacked on April 26, following the hijacking of a dhow and the Honour 25 tanker earlier in the week.
- ▪Piracy incidents around Somalia had significantly decreased since 2014 but have begun to rise again in 2023.
- ▪Experts suggest that pirates are taking advantage of international naval resources being diverted to the Red Sea and have established land networks for support.
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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 a weekPirates appear to be taking advantage of international naval strength being diverted to Middle EastMohamed Gabobe in Mogadishu and Rachel SavageTue 28 Apr 2026 12.20 EDTLast modified on Tue 28 Apr 2026 21.31 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 day after…
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