Tag: security measures

ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre (ISC) provided an insight into the incidents reported in Asia during January-September 2023 reporting a 37% increase in incidents of armed robbery and discussed security concerns of vessels transiting the Straits of Malacca and Singapore (SOMS) with maritime stakeholders, during a recent dialogue.

Kyle Hurst, the Director of Maritime Safety & Security Services at Iridium Communications, underscores the perils inherent in the maritime sphere, emphasizing the imperative of a robust onboard system that operates seamlessly irrespective of location, weather conditions or other challenges.

The Republic of the Marshall Islands has lowered the security level setting for vessels operating within the Russian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) to Security Level II but urges a setting of Security Level III for all RMI- registered vessels operating in the EEZ of Ukraine.

Following the geopolitical conflict in Israel, as well as the recent attacks on Israeli ports, the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) issued a ship security advisory to inform that the security level for these ports and territorial waters has been raised to Security Level III.

The Panama Maritime Administration has issued a circular to provide guidance to Panama flag vessels following the Israel-Hamas Conflict that broke out on October 7th, 2023, urging all vessels to implement comprehensive security protocols and steer clear of the Mediterranean vicinity around the Gaza Strip.

Due to the re-escalation Israeli ports are deemed to be at heightened risk. With continuous rocket barrages expected from Gaza, alongside the potential for a protracted conflict the damage to port infrastructure becomes increasingly probable, Dryad Global warns in a recent article.

Port of Antwerp-Bruges is launching an extensive digital radar and camera network in order to ensure safe operations at the Port.

A French navy vessel operating in the Middle East as part of a US-led coalition seized four separate shipments of drugs worth $108 million over the past month, according to an announcement of the coalition. 

While all Libyan ports, except for Sirte, are reported to be operational for internationally trading ships, Gard Club recommends assessing all port calls on a case-by-case basis and ensuring appropriate protective measures are incorporated into ship security plans.

According to Skuld P&I, recently seafarers have been detained and prosecuted by Egyptian security due to items found during luggage inspection.