EUNAVFOR ATALANTA has confirmed the release of the Yemeni fishing boat AL NAJMA, which was hijacked off the northern coast of Puntland, Somalia.
The incident, initially reported on February 8 as an armed robbery at sea, prompted an immediate response from ATALANTA’s naval and air assets. Their search efforts successfully located the vessel near the Somali coast, and the presence of an ATALANTA helicopter played a key role in securing its release. A boarding team later ensured the safety of all 12 crew members, who were unharmed.
❗Operation ATALANTA confirms the liberation of the “AL NAJMA”, the Yemeni fishing boat hijacked off Eyl, Northern coast of Puntland (Somalia).
Operation ATALANTA is fully committed to maritime security in its Area of Operations.
More ℹ️ and images: https://t.co/vgU1jdyBma pic.twitter.com/MmKb8UaeG1
— EUNAVFOR ATALANTA (@EUNAVFOR) February 13, 2025
Following the rescue, ATALANTA forces gathered evidence for an ongoing investigation and provided technical assistance after a malfunction on the dhow’s engine The crew reported that the alleged pirates had fled after stealing personal belongings and two skiffs.
Throughout the operation, ATALANTA coordinated closely with maritime security partners, including Somali forces, the Yemeni Coast Guard, the Combined Maritime Forces, and a Japanese Maritime Patrol Reconnaissance Aircraft.
