By Nuh Mohamed - Reporter
Somalia, January 2, 2026 The Maritime Security Center for the Indian Ocean (MSCIO), which monitors maritime activity in thigh-threat areas, has confirmed that armed groups carried out an attack on a fishing vessel operating in waters off the coast of Puntland, Somalia.
The attack targeted a Chinese fishing vessel named Liao Dong Yu 578, which was sailing near the Kulule coastal area, located in Bandar-Bayla district of the Karkaar region.
According to MSCIO, the incident occurred on the New Year (January 1, 2026). The center stated that investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances of the attack and any resulting damage. It has not yet been confirmed whether the armed groups took control of the vessel or its crew.
More from Somalia
Liao Dong Yu 578 is a vessel with a previous history of piracy incidents. Reports indicate that the ship was earlier hijacked by pirates off the coast of Puntland in November 2024 and was released in January 2025 after a ransom estimated at nearly $2 million was paid. This marks the second time the vessel has been targeted in a similar attack.
MSCIO has also issued a warning to all vessels operating in the area, urging them to exercise heightened vigilance and to report any suspicious activities along the Puntland coastline.
