The Indian Navy has also issued an alert that six incidents of hijacking of dhows by an unknown number of perpetrators has taken place off Somalia in the last two months. "The perpetrators may likely use the hijacked dhow as a mother ship in attacking/ hijacking other vessels. Further, the analysis of past incidents has revealed that the mother ship (dhow) remains in the proximity of MV after boarding till the pirates establish control over the vessel as a possible means for a quick exit in case of intervention by naval forces," the alert reads, cautioning vessels to exercise extreme caution, remain vigilant and maintain strict anti-piracy watch and measures.