Somali Piracy Resurgence as Third Merchant Vessel Hijacked in One Week
Fears of a major resurgence in Somali piracy mounted on April 30, 2026, following the hijacking of the motor vessel Sward near Garacad. The cement carrier, manned by 17 crew members, was seized on April 26 and remains anchored in a remote coastal area under the control of 20 armed pirates. This incident is the third hijacking in seven days, following the seizure of the tanker Honour 25 and a dhow, as international naval forces are increasingly diverted to the Red Sea.
Date: April 30, 2026
Location: Somalia
Conflict: Somali Civil War
Category: naval
Severity: HIGH
Source: Hiiraan Online