UKMTO Warning Vessel Approached by 3 Skiffs 1 Unmanned

ASKET Note:

It has been reported that an armed team engaged the skiffs, either with warning or aimed shots.

UKMTO ADVISORY NOTICE 002/MAR/2020 Update Number 2

UPDATE: INCIDENT

A Merchant Vessel in Position: 14-18.06N 052-29.18E. (In Vicinity Point Bravo of the IRTC) at 1020UTC on 3rd March was closed by 3 small craft. 1 of these craft was unmanned and approached the vessel to extreme close quarters. This approach caused no damage, nor were any crew members injured. The Merchant Vessel and crew are safe.

The early indications are that the unmanned craft was probably remote controlled.

The details of the incident remains under investigation.

All vessels are encouraged to exercise Extreme Caution when transiting this area, and report any unusual sightings/observations to UKMTO as soon as possible.

ADVISORY NOTICE 002/MAR/2020 Update

UPDATE: INCIDENT

A Merchant Vessel in Posn. 1418.06N 05229.18E. (in Vicinity Point Bravo of the IRTC) at 1020utc on 3rd March was closed by 3 small craft.

1 of the craft was unmanned and approached the vessel to extreme close quarters.

The Vessel followed BMP5 procedures and all of the small craft withdrew.

The details of the incident remains under investigation.

All vessels are encouraged to exercise Extreme Caution when transiting this area, and report any unusual sightings/observations to UKMTO as soon as possible.

UKMTO Watchkeeper

Email: watchkeepers@ukmto.org

Emergency Tel: +44 (0)2392 222060

Emergency Tel: +971 5055 23215

General Enquiries: +44 (0)2392 222065

www.ukmto.org

ASKET Maritime Security Alert Chart