The latest attack on a tanker occurred last week 60 miles off Port Harcourt
Although the world’s focus is on the pirate attacks in the Somali Basin and Gulf of Aden attacks are still being recorded off West Africa, Nigeria in particular. There are significant differences between the two regions; Nigeria is a governed democracy and has one of the largest militaries on the African continent.
The latest attack on a tanker occurred last week 60 miles off Port Harcourt where the Nigerian military presence is heaviest. The ship was hijacked and held until reportedly released on the 5 November 2011.
Previously the Standard Club has warned of piracy attacks off West Africa and Nigeria in particular and previous advice has been to keep well offshore – over 50 miles has been given as a reasonable distance.
However this would now appear to be insufficient and pirates are ranging further offshore and coastwise transiting ships should bear this in mind. Managers and owners should take precautions when trading in these areas and provide ships with appropriate advice and guidance.
Source: The Standard P&I Club