Cyprus Government will not take any legal action against owners who engage armed guards
Cyprus authorities have confirmed that they will not pursue legal or administrative action against owners or managers of Cyprus-flagged ships who use armed guards for the protection of their ships.
In a “To Whom it May Concern” letter dated 16 September 2011, issued by the Director of the Department of Merchant Shipping (DMS), the DMS stated that:
“…the Cyprus Government and this Department will not take any legal or administrative action against owners or managers of Cyprus flag ships who engage armed guards for the protection of their ships in the high risk areas”.
Following consultation with the DMS, and taking into account the fact that the Cyprus “Piracy Bill” which will regulate the use of armed guards on board Cyprus-flagged ships will be enacted soon anyway, the Chamber has been authorised to distribute the letter to its Members. To view the letter as sent on the 16 September, click here.
Operators should decide to act upon the letter before the enactment of the Piracy Bill, are strongly advised to consult insurers before proceeding with the engagement of armed guards onboard ships.
Source: INTERTANKO
