24/01/2012
Reading international media reports these days it’s difficult to know whether we are combating the issue of maritime piracy or whether the balance is tipping favourably in some waters, only to shift the problem into other regions.
The USA Today report successful pirate attacks in the Horn of Africa dropping by almost 50% since 2010 and ABC News report of worldwide piracy dropping for the first time in five years in 2011 from 445 in 2010 to 439 in 2011.
These figures can however seem a little clouded, especially when in the Horn of Africa, there were 129 attempted attacks in 2011, only 3 down from 2010 at 132. And, although attempts and actual attacks are down, Somali pirate attacks accounted for 54% of global numbers with their success rate up from 2010. That said the current troubled waters of the Gulf of Aden are seeing a significant reduction.
Reported numbers for attack attempts are similar over the years and it’s great that preventative measures are finally making a real dent in captive ships and crew hostages...but shouldn’t we be reducing the number of attempts?
Navy presence has greatly increased ocean patrols and international organisations such as NATO and International Maritime Bureau along with our world leaders and politicians acting strongly to enforce the law and support private maritime security companies and shipping companies upholding these laws.
Security measures are becoming more innovative with continued technology advancements of intelligence techniques and targeted surveillance. Onboard armed security teams can effectively plan ongoing safety precautions and react instantly to prevent threats from developing into anything more.
The threat of marine piracy will never end. Gangs will change tactics and gain their own improved intelligence. Pirate group may get stronger in numbers and new gangs may surface due to cultural and social disturbances. Shipping companies have a responsibility to protect their vessels, crews and cargo for commercial stability and corporate responsibility. Lives and economies depend on this.
Counter measures and greatly improving as is the training of our maritime security teams and naval counterparts. Let’s hope 2012 sees even further reductions in both attempted attacks and success levels.
