Security
August 2021
Change in piracy threats in Indian Ocean prompts re-think of High Risk Area
A continued downward trend in Somali piracy has prompted leading shipping organisations to reduce the geographic boundaries of the ‘High Risk Area’ (HRA) for piracy in the Indian Ocean, which will apply from 1 September 2021.
July 2021
Shipping associations renew call for international naval response to Nigeria-based pirates
New forum for operational coordination and deconfliction sees industry pay tribute to Nigeria’s Deep Blue project while repeating the call for international navies to bridge the immediate law enforcement gap.
June 2021
Industry’s support for piracy declaration rises to nearly 350 signatures
Steadily increasing support for the Gulf of Guinea Declaration on Suppression of Piracy, combined with Nigeria announcing significant investment to address the ongoing piracy issue in the Gulf of Guinea, raises hope that efforts are on the right track to end piracy in the region and increase safety for seafarers.
UN report confirms urgent need for action against Nigerian piracy
In a report published 9 June 2021, the United Nations Office on Drugs & Crime (UNODC) provides an interesting view into on the piracy problem emanating from the Niger Delta, and explains in detail why there is an urgent need for international cooperation to change the situation.
BIMCO welcomes updated IMO Compendium to advance electronic data
Standardising and harmonising electronic ship to shore communication for reporting purposes was high on the agenda at the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) virtual Facilitation Committee (FAL) meeting held from 1-7 June 2021 (FAL 45).
Shipping industry welcomes Nigeria’s creation of “Deep Blue” to stamp out piracy in the Gulf of Guinea
The Round Table of Shipowner Associations and OCIMF have expressed their full support for the launch of Nigeria’s Deep Blue Project.
May 2021
Shipping industry launch the Gulf of Guinea Declaration on Suppression of Piracy
The attacks on merchant ships in the Gulf of Guinea by Nigerian pirates must end. So far, 99 maritime companies, organisations and flag states, including BIMCO, have signed the Gulf of Guinea Declaration on Suppression of Piracy, which was launched today.
Ships are advised to take extra precaution when anchoring in Malaysian waters
During a 10-day operation called “Jangkar Haram”, Malaysia clamped down on illegal anchoring in its waters. The ships involved have either been warned and ordered to leave or detained and fined. BIMCO recommends Masters to take extra precaution and obtain prior permission from relevant authorities before anchoring.
April 2021
Nigeria and ICC announce ground-breaking antipiracy forum
In an unprecedented move, Nigeria and the Interregional Coordination Centre for the Implementation of Regional Strategy for Maritime Safety and Security in Central and West Africa (ICC) have announced the formation of a Maritime Collaboration Forum to provide shared awareness and deconfliction of activities in the Gulf of Guinea (GOG-MCF/SHADE). The forum is for all stakeholders, both regional and international.
Lloyd’s Market Association advices underwriters of poised situation in Ukraine
Russia’s announcement that it will close access to the Kerch Strait which connect the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov has triggered a reaction within the London insurance market.
