On Friday March 17th 2023, a merchant ship came under attack off the coast of Yemen. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that the cargo ship was approximately 38 nautical miles (70 km) south of the port of Hodeidah when the incident occurred.

Armed Guards Successfully Repel Attack

According to reports, a craft approached the vessel in the dark and fired four to five bursts of automatic gunfire from within a nautical mile of the starboard side. Fortunately, an armed security team on board the vessel was able to successfully return fire, causing the attackers to retreat.

Crew and Vessel Safe After Incident in Red Sea

We are pleased to confirm that the vessel and crew have been reported safe following the incident. However, this attack serves as a stark reminder of the importance of remaining vigilant and taking all necessary precautions when operating in high-risk areas.

Vessels Advised to Be on High Alert When Plying Red Sea Route

Vessels plying the Red Sea route past Yemen are advised to be on high alert and to report any suspicious approaches. It is also recommended to use armed guards in the area to ensure the safety of crew and cargo.

This is the third attack reported this month in the Indian Ocean High Risk Area, highlighting the need for constant vigilance and security measures. We urge all vessel owners and operators to take this matter seriously and to prioritize the safety and security of their crew and vessels.

As the risks are still very high in the Indian Ocean High-Risk Area, we would like to assist you and provide you with the appropriate safety measures, as these recent attacks indicate that the importance is significant. And that security during a possible attack ensures that it is handled properly.

Please contact us so that we can provide you with a suitable and tailor-made proposal.

Together, we will ensure safety at sea!

As ESS Maritime, a leading maritime security provider, we understand the importance of enhancing maritime security in today’s world. Here are five reasons why we recommend tightening maritime security measures in light of recent piracy activities:

1. Protection of Crew and Vessels

Piracy is a serious threat to the safety of crews and vessels. Tightening maritime security measures, such as hiring armed security personnel or implementing security protocols, can help prevent attacks and ensure the safety of crew and vessels.

2. Prevention of Cargo Theft

Cargo theft is a significant concern for shipping companies. By strengthening maritime security, companies can prevent pirates from hijacking and stealing valuable cargo, resulting in significant financial losses.

3. Mitigation of Insurance Costs

Insurance premiums for ships traveling through high-risk areas can be prohibitively expensive. By demonstrating that proper security measures are in place, shipping companies can reduce insurance costs and save money.

4. Compliance with International Regulations

International regulations, such as the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS Code), require that ships implement security measures to protect against piracy and other security threats. Ensuring compliance with these regulations is essential for avoiding penalties and maintaining a good reputation in the industry.

5. Protection of Global Trade

The shipping industry plays a critical role in global trade, and piracy can have a significant impact on the flow of goods. By strengthening maritime security, we can protect global trade and ensure that goods continue to reach their intended destinations.

Conclusion

Piracy remains a significant threat to the maritime industry, and it is essential to implement robust security measures to prevent attacks and protect crews, vessels, cargo, and global trade. At ESS Maritime, we are committed to providing the highest level of maritime security services to our clients, and we urge all shipping companies to take the necessary steps to enhance their security measures.

Today, 13 March 2018, marks a momentous maritime decision: the Dutch Parliament has agreed to allow shipowners to employ private maritime security operators as the vessels sail through High Risk Areas (HRAs; coast of Somali, Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean).

For decades, shipowners had to contact the Royal Navy if they were planning to sail through a High Risk Area. The problem was twofold: the Royal Navy could not reach every location within a minute’s notice and some vessels could not accommodate VPDs (Vessel Protection Detachments) onboard,  consisting of Dutch Marines – from port to port.

But those days are over. Because of the Dutch Parliament’s yes-vote, Shipowners can now hire private maritime security companies to protect their vessels, Masters, crew and cargo. These highly trained and experienced security staff will be allowed to carry firearms and, in the event of an attack, use force. Of course, clear protocols will have to be followed; for example, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Rules for the Use of Force (RUF).

The KVNR (Royal Dutch Shipping Association) and private shipowners, among others, couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome!

For ESS Maritime, this vote allows us to offer Dutch shipowners fully trained and highly experienced security personnel . From armed Maritime Security Operators (MSO) to unarmed Maritime Liaison Officers, ESS Maritime has the right solution and the experienced staff for each vessel in transit throughout the world’s HRAs.