Somali Pirates Hijack Iranian Fishing Vessel Carrying 23 People

GOOBJOOG NEWS: More details have emerged about the hijacking of the Iranian-owned fishing vessel Azini, seized by armed pirates off northeastern Somalia with 23 people on board.

A Puntland Maritime Police Force (PMPF) officer told the Associated Press that 12 pirates captured the vessel as it sailed between Bandar Bayla and Hafun in Bari region. The officer said 21 Iranian crew members and two Somali guards were on board.

The Indian Ocean Maritime Security Center (MSCIO) said the hijacking took place on October 29, 2026, at around 9 a.m. Coordinated Universal Time. There has been no official update on the hostages’ condition, and it remains unclear whether contact has been made with them.

MSCIO issued a security alert about the vessel’s movements, warning that pirates could use it as a base for attacks farther from the Somali coast. A larger vessel could allow pirates to remain at sea for longer and launch attacks using smaller boats against commercial shipping in the Indian Ocean.

The European Union’s counter-piracy mission, EU NAVFOR Atalanta, is investigating the incident. Ships operating in the area have been urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.

The hijacking has renewed concerns about a possible resurgence of piracy off Somalia, which could threaten commercial shipping and trade through key maritime routes.