Kathmandu— Piracy is surging off the coast of Somalia, raising concerns about a potential resurgence similar to the crisis in the early 2010s. The Federal Government of Somalia announced on August 29 that Turkish naval forces, working with Somali troops, had freed the cargo ship MV Lutuf after a 10-day pursuit, killing 14 pirates and destroying four pirate boats. The vessel was seized off Jifle in Puntland, Somalia’s semi-autonomous northeastern region, on August 17.
Recent Attacks
The seizure of the MV Lutuf is part of a series of attacks that have occurred since spring. An analysis by the International Maritime Organization found at least 15 piracy incidents in Somali waters and the Gulf of Aden this year, including eight in the Gulf of Aden since May. The Joint Maritime Information Center raised its piracy threat assessment to “severe” due to the surge in attacks during April and May.
Causes Behind Resurgence
The resurgence is attributed to several factors, including a shift in naval attention towards conflicts elsewhere in the region. Abdurrahim Muhammad Ali of the Djibouti Maritime Authority noted that pirates are exploiting this distraction. Additionally, economic pressures onshore have intensified due to inflation and cuts to humanitarian aid from key funding sources like the US and UK.
Organizational Structure
Recent piracy operations appear more organized than in previous years. According to experts, today’s attacks are financed by investors who supply crews with necessary equipment and provisions. Small groups near pirate anchorages also support these operations by providing food, repairs, and stimulants.
Preventive Measures
Efforts to prevent another major piracy wave include a new basing agreement between the European Union and Djibouti for Operation Atalanta. Saudi Arabia has also assembled a maritime task force that includes Somalia, while Puntland’s president signed an agreement with US military officials to enhance maritime security cooperation around Bosaso.
(With inputs from Al Jazeera)
Originally published on abcnews.com.np.
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