The SA Navy is mandated to protect our waters and our shores but in reality, it does a lot more.
SIMON'S TOWN - The South African Navy said rising geopolitical tensions in the Horn of Africa are fuelling a surge in piracy threats along major international shipping routes.
Navy Chief Monde Lobese said attacks off Somalia and Yemen have spiked in recent months.
Monde Lobese, SA Navy chief, said in piracy surge could be an issue in the long run.
"The increase in piracy off the Somalia and Yemen has also, uh, surged to new heights, coinciding with the escalation of regional and geopolitical tensions, raising threats to key shipping corridors in the Horn of Africa.
"At least four vessels were reported to have been hijacked since April 2026 in the waters of Somalia and Yemen. That region has been embroiled in crisis since the local movements, armed groups, and terrorist organizations were escalating tensions, which calls for increased naval presence.
"However, such a strategy could prove counterproductive in the longer term if not properly controlled, which could fuel a resurgence of piracy.