This was reported by the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), Ukrinform reports.

"UKMTO has received a report of an incident 50NM southeast of Al-Shihr, Yemen. The Master of a product tanker reported being approached by a skiff carrying five armed persons who appeared to be attempting to board the vessel," the statement said.

It added that the vessel responded by carrying out evasive maneuvers and changing course, moving away from the boat.

The vessel, whose name was not disclosed, is now heading to its next port of call.

It is noted that the vessel and crew are safe. Authorities are investigating.

UKMTO recommends that vessels transit the area with caution and report any suspicious activity.

As reported by Ukrinform, Somali pirates seized the oil tanker MT Eureka off the coast of Yemen in early May.

Illustrative photo: Shaah Shahidh on Unsplash