Security Overview
EUNAVFOR Operation ATALANTA reported that HONOUR 25, SWARD, EUREKA and ASANA remained under pirate control near the Northern Somali Coast in its latest situation update republished on July 31, 2026.
The four vessels were reported anchored inside territorial waters and close to the coast. A total of 67 crew members remained in captivity according to EUNAVFOR.
Security Situation & Developments
- April 21: HONOUR 25 was hijacked off northern Somalia while sailing toward Mogadishu, with up to 17 crew members aboard.
- April 26: SWARD was hijacked while sailing toward Mombasa. EUNAVFOR reported up to 15 crew members aboard.
- May 2: EUREKA was hijacked while anchored off Qana Port, Yemen, with 12 crew members.
- July 17: ASANA was hijacked approximately 65 nautical miles southwest of Mukalla, Yemen, with up to 22 crew members.
- In its July 29 official update, EUNAVFOR said all four vessels were positioned close to one another near the Northern Somali Coast.
- EUNAVFOR said it remained in contact with vessel owners, flag administrations and local maritime forces.
Risk Exposure & Impact
Threat level: The official update did not assign a numerical or colour-coded rating. It advised vessels in the vicinity to maintain heightened vigilance, follow Best Management Practices for Maritime Security.
Shipping impact: The immediate and verified impact concerns the four vessels and 67 crew members.
Security background: The incidents occurred separately over several months but resulted in the vessels being held in the same coastal area. This operational pattern supports enhanced voyage planning, watchkeeping and reporting.