Armed Boat Opens Fire on LNG Tanker Off Yemen Coast

ISTANBUL, October 17, 2026 — A small boat carrying seven people approached and fired at a liquefied natural gas (LNG) tanker off Yemen’s coast, according to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) agency.

The incident occurred approximately 140 nautical miles southeast of Al Mukalla, Yemen, UKMTO said in a statement posted on X.

According to the agency, the tanker’s master reported that a small skiff with seven people aboard approached the vessel and fired two shots.

The tanker’s armed security team responded by firing two warning shots, prompting the small boat to change course and move away from the vessel.

No further details about the incident were immediately available.

UKMTO Urges Vessels to Remain Vigilant

UKMTO urged ships operating in the area to exercise caution, remain alert to suspicious activity and report any concerns to the relevant authorities.

The agency said investigations into the incident were ongoing.
NEWS DESK 
PRESS UPDATE