Confirmed Pirate Boarding of a Bulk Carrier in the Gulf of Aden in International Shipping News 01/07/2026 A confirmed piracy incident is ongoing involving a bulk carrier transiting the Internationally Recommended Transit Corridor, in the vicinity of 12°46′N, 048°03′E, approximately 110 nautical miles northeast of Bosaso, Somalia. A skiff carrying heavily armed persons, reportedly including an individual equipped with a rocket-propelled grenade launcher, approached and successfully boarded the vessel. Shortly before the confirmed boarding, the vessel experienced a sudden loss of propulsion and began drifting. The Master reported that all crew members successfully retreated to the citadel and remain safe. The incident remains ongoing. There is currently no confirmation that the perpetrators have departed the vessel or gained access to the citadel. Key Points: • Time and position: The incident occurred on 01 July 2026, approximately 110 nautical miles northeast of Bosaso, Somalia, within the Internationally Recommended Transit Corridor. • Vessel and movement: The bulk carrier was proceeding normally at approximately 11.7–12.0 knots on a course of 066°–068° between 05:51 and 06:20 UTC. • Loss of propulsion: At approximately 06:47 UTC, the vessel’s speed abruptly decreased to 1.1 knots and subsequently to approximately 0.4 knots. • Latest reported movement: At 07:43 UTC, the vessel was drifting at approximately 0.8 knots on a course over ground of 093°. • Approach profile: A single skiff carrying heavily armed persons approached the vessel. A rocket-propelled grenade launcher was reportedly observed. • Boarding status: Armed perpetrators successfully boarded the vessel. Their number, location onboard and intentions remain unconfirmed. • Crew status: All crew members reportedly completed a successful retreat to the citadel and remain safe and accounted for. • Current status: The incident remains active. There is no confirmation that the perpetrators have left the vessel o