The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) announced on the 20th (local time) that an oil tanker passing through waters near Yemen was hijacked by armed men.

According to the official announcement by the UKMTO, the oil tanker, which was sailing westward through the Gulf of Aden, sent out a distress signal via VHF radio channel after an unidentified vessel approached it in waters 136 nautical miles (approx. 251 km) east of Mukalla, Yemen.

The UKMTO stated, "We have confirmed that six armed men boarded the oil tanker, took control of the vessel, and have currently altered its course toward Somalia."

Specific details, such as the extent of the damage to the hijacked tanker or the safety of the crew members, have not yet been confirmed.

Relevant authorities are currently investigating the incident.

In addition, the UKMTO advised, "We urge vessels navigating nearby waters to exercise extreme caution and immediately report any suspicious activity."

(Photo: Capture from UKMTO website, Yonhap News)