A Chinese-owned fishing vessel with 18 crew members was hijacked off Somalia’s northeastern coast, reportedly involving the ship’s security guards and local armed men, Puntland authorities confirmed.

The EU anti-piracy force, Eunavfor Atalanta, classified the incident as armed robbery at sea.

The vessel, registered under Taiwan’s flag and licensed to fish in Somali waters, has been moved between coastal locations.

Unverified reports claim the hijackers demanded a $5 million ransom, which was declined, ABC News has reported.

This highlights ongoing maritime security challenges in Somalia, despite a significant decline in piracy since its 2011 peak.

Written by B.C. Begley