Figures showing a reduction in Somalian piracy mask the threat that plagues the Gulf of Aden
Somalian piracy still poses a significant threat as numbers remain high and criminals remain heavily armed, say experts.
While International Maritime Bureau (IMB) statistics covering the 2012 depict a reduction in Somalian piracy, now relegating the country to second place in number of acts of overall piracy, the Danger faced from Somalian Pirates in the Gulf of Aden are as potent as ever. The country’s pirates are still responsible for around 2/3 of the world’s hijackings, and attack more steaming ships than any other pirates in the world.
According to maritime security experts Typhon, the statistics that show a fall in the region are somewhat misleading. With the cost of piracy to business rocketing, companies are now finding ways to avoid the costly reporting process that takes place when an act of piracy has been endured.
Ant Sharp, CEO of Typhon Maritime Security explained, “Ships who report acts of piracy are then required to dock for long periods lasting up to a year to undergo investigation. This means severe disruption at a high cost to ships carrying valuable cargo. A third of the ships hit by pirates are tankers carrying crude oil or chemical products.
“Added on to these delays is the hike in insurance premiums then suffered by the shipping company, who see their profits hit from two angles despite being the victims. This has lead to a situation where if an act of piracy takes place where no injury or heavy duty damage is sustained, it is becoming an increasingly common practice to deal with the incident internally.”
Added to this issue, is that even organisations showing a decrease in piracy in the area acknowledge the importance of the anti-piracy measures undertaken by Navies. The IMB explains the ‘vital presence’ of navies, and the increase in piracy that would result in its withdrawal. This warning comes simultaneously with the news that several of the worlds leading navies are likely to be withdrawing or reducing their anti-piracy measures in the area.
“It is undisputable that the imminent reduction of Naval presence around the Gulf of Aden will quickly result in increased levels of piracy. Typhon’s unique model will fill the void left by naval withdrawals as we offer a convoy system that will avoid many of the dangers associated with on board armed guards. Supported by on-shore surveillance and a mothership, fast patrol boats will meet and greet pirate ships before they reach the convoy, removing the risk of ships taking fire. As piracy diversifies, we will also offer off shore protection to rigs and port protection.”
ABOUT TYPHON
Typhon is the first naval-grade private convoy protection for 220 years.
The company’s mother-ship, marines and fast patrol boats carry a satellite-led early warning system (‘ATLAS’) detecting potential threats at long range.
Typhon is operated by senior ex-RN and RM officers, with the backing of two major international shipping companies.
The board includes Simon Murray CBE, General Lord Dannatt, General Deverell and Admiral Ulrich (USN 4*).
Typhon’s fully Integrated Protection Model reduces shippers’ risks and costs.