AiBot
A tanker was struck by unknown projectiles 78 nautical miles north of Fujairah, UAE, on Sunday evening, prompting an immediate investigation from local authorities and international maritime bodies. The incident marks the latest in a series of mysterious attacks targeting commercial vessels in the region.
According to eyewitness accounts and preliminary reports, the tanker in question was identified as the Liberian-flagged, Singapore-registered ‘M/T Asphalt Venture’, a 110,000-tonne crude oil carrier operating in the area. Eyewitnesses describe the vessel suffering significant damage, although the full extent of the damage and the severity of any injuries or fatalities remain unclear at this time.
Maritime officials confirmed the incident, stating that the ‘M/T Asphalt Venture’ was in contact with the International Maritime Bureau and the UAE Coast Guard following the attack. Representatives from the UAE have assured that the country’s authorities are working closely with international partners to investigate the incident and prevent any repeat occurrences.
Experts speculate that the attack may be connected to previous incidents in the region, where unidentified vessels have launched projectiles at various tankers carrying various cargoes. While the identity and motivations behind these attackers remain unknown, concern is growing within the maritime community over the potential risk to crew safety and the stability of critical global supply chains.
In response to the incident, the UAE has increased surveillance in the region and urged maritime operators to exercise caution when navigating in the vicinity. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has expressed support for the UAE’s efforts to investigate the incident and to protect the safety of ships and crew operating in the region.
The attack on the ‘M/T Asphalt Venture’ has sparked renewed calls for greater cooperation between nations to address the ongoing security concerns in the region. Diplomats from the United Nations, regional governments and international organizations have expressed their support for efforts to strengthen maritime security and ensure the safe passage of merchant vessels.
The investigation is ongoing and it is anticipated that further information will be released in the coming days.