By Abukar Osman. - Reporter
Mogadishu, 29 August 2026 - Somali forces, with support from the Turkish navy, have retaken the MV LATUF, 12 days after it was hijacked off Puntland, Somalia's defence ministry said.
The vessel was hijacked Aug. 17 near Jifle on the Eyl coast in Nugaal region, the ministry said.
The operation lasted 10 days and targeted the group that seized the ship. Four pirate boats were destroyed and 14 pirates killed, according to the ministry. Continued pressure forced remaining pirates to abandon the vessel, allowing forces to regain control, it said.
The MV LATUF is now continuing its journey, the ministry said.
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The ministry said the operation falls under defence and maritime security cooperation between Somalia and Türkiye to protect Somalia's coastline, secure territorial waters and combat piracy.
It warned individuals and groups involved in piracy and those financing it would be held accountable.
The ministry praised Somali forces and the Turkish navy, saying the operation demonstrates the government's commitment to protect Somalia's coastline.