During the incident, five armed individuals tried to escape on a fast boat but were chased by the US warship and they eventually surrendered…reports Asian Lite News
A US Navy warship swiftly responded to a distress call from the commercial tanker Central Park, which had been seized by armed individuals in the Gulf of Aden. The USS Mason, supported by allied ships, successfully demanded the release of the vessel.
During the incident, five armed individuals tried to escape on a fast boat but were chased by the US warship and they eventually surrendered, according to Reuters report.
In a concerning development, two ballistic missiles were launched from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen towards the USS Mason and Central Park. Fortunately, they landed approximately 10 nautical miles away, resulting in no damage or injuries.
This event is part of a series of attacks in Middle Eastern waters amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas since October 7. Last week, Yemen Houthis, allies of Iran, seized an Israeli-linked cargo ship in the southern Red Sea, threatening further attacks on Israeli vessels with ballistic missiles and armed drones.
The Central Park, a small chemical tanker managed by Zodiac Maritime Ltd, encountered the suspected piracy incident about 54 nautical miles off the coast of Somalia. Carrying a full cargo of phosphoric acid, the vessel’s multinational crew, consisting of Russian, Vietnamese, Bulgarian, Indian, Georgian, and Filipino nationals, prioritizes their safety.
Despite the lack of immediate comments from Houthi officials, the UK Maritime Trade Operations agency noted a potential attack in southwest Aden, urging caution for other vessels.