TheInternational Maritime Bureau (IMB) says that as the monsoon in the north westIndian Ocean begins to subside the weather once again becomes conducive to theoperation of small pirate skiffs.
Theorganisation has urged ship’s masters not to be complacent as they transit theArabian Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
Ithas called for ships to remain alert and apply the Best Management Practices(BMP), including its reporting requirements, as it transits the area.
“Overallthis year the attacks have fallen to ten, a trend which is attributed to thevital action of the naval vessels engaged in anti-piracy operations, compliancewith the BMP and the use of professional security teams on board,” IMB said.
“Ashorein Somalia, the government in Mogadishu which has been in power for the last 12months has provided a stabilising influence which has been missing for decades.”
IMBsaid naval forces continue to play a key role in the response against piracy inthis area from the collection of intelligence to the identification anddisarming of suspected pirate vessels before they pose a threat to ships andwarned against any early withdrawl.
“Itis vital that they remain until the situation improves ashore so that piracy isno longer a viable option for the criminals,” said Pottengal Mukundan, Directorof the IMB.
“Althoughthe attacks off Somalia have fallen we should not forget the desperate plightof the 64 crew currently held in Somalia, 38 of whom have been there for overtwo years.”
