Somali Piracy: IMO Maritime Safety Committee to Review

ADVERTISEMENTS

IMO Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) is set to take up piracy and armed robbery against ships in their 86th session to be held from May 27 to June 5 at the Organization’s London Headquarters. Part of the IMO Briefing 22/2009 is given below:

Piracy and armed robbery against ships
The MSC will review the latest statistics on piracy and armed robbery against ships, in particular in relation to the situation off the coast of Somalia and in the Gulf of Aden, where ships continue to be attacked and hijacked, despite the concerted efforts of the international community, spearheaded by IMO, navies and the industry, to protect shipping.
The MSC is expected to finalize updated Recommendations to Governments for preventing and suppressing piracy and armed robbery against ships; and Guidance to shipowners and ship operators, shipmasters and crews on preventing and suppressing acts of piracy and armed robbery against ships, taking into account the current trends and practices of the perpetrators with a view to providing advice in cases where seafarers, fishermen and other mariners are kidnapped or held hostage for ransom; and providing advice in cases where naval vessels and military aircraft seek to provide assistance or protection.
A special briefing from those involved in operations to deter and repress acts of piracy and armed robbery against ships off the coast of Somalia, as well as from those affected by the situation, including industry representatives, will be held on Wednesday, 27 May at 4.30. p.m.