Somali pirates seize Iranian fishing vessel

Reports say pirates seized the Iranian fishing vessel Azini off northeastern Somalia. The reports describe concerns that the seizure could pose a risk to commercial shipping, though the available details differ.

• The Azini, an Iranian fishing vessel, was seized by Somali pirates.· 2 sources
• A maritime security officer said the vessel was hijacked on October 29 between Bandar Bayla and Hafun in northeastern Somalia.· 1 source
• The Maritime Security Center Indian Ocean said 23 people were aboard and warned the vessel was approaching a commercial shipping lane and could be used as a base for further attacks.· 1 source