The assessment established that the vessel was initially located in Sierra Leonean territorial waters, preventing Liberian authorities from intervening without authorization from Sierra Leone. However, the Coast Guard also found the vessel’s movements and activities suspicious and subsequently classified it as a vessel of interest, initiating enhanced monitoring while coordinating with regional maritime partners beginning August 1. Despite moving farther offshore, the minister said the vessel remains within Liberia’s territorial waters. He disclosed that Liberia has since activated regional maritime security cooperation mechanisms and requested assistance from neighboring partners to help track and intercept the vessel. According to Piah, regional partners have responded positively, and support is being mobilized to assist Liberian authorities in compelling the vessel to return for inspection.