Vulnerabilities of ships highlighted in the recent piracy incident
Posted: 21 December 2005
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The recent piracy incident involving the cruise ship Seabourn Spirit, occurring 100 miles from the coast of Somalia last month, has illustrated a problem that continues to grow in both frequency and severity.
Although this incident is considered to be the first against a passenger ship since Achille Lauro in 1985, it showcased a well organised militant group in fatigues, carrying high powered weapons, deployed on two vessels that were likely launched from a larger "mothership" vessel that was over-the-horizon.
Mariners all over the world were likely not surprised by the event, knowing that areas such as Somalia , the Malacca Straits , Southeast Asia , among others have been plagued by piracy for decades. In many ways, this attack may have been a blessing in disguise.
It has forced the public to recognise not only the piracy problem in a particular region of the world, but the vulnerabilities of all ships at sea in general. Following the incident, on behalf of the IMO Secretary General Efthimios Mitropoulos, a spokesman wrote: "The growing threat to the safety of ships on the high seas must be addressed at the highest diplomatic levels. While the principal concern is for the safety of our seafarers and passengers, the attacks against shipping off Somalia have direct implications for the security of the world's transport supply chain. In connection with the successful implementation of the International Ship Port Security Code (ISPS), it is the obligation of governments to take every possible step to protect international shipping from piracy on the high seas. "
The crew of the Seabourn Spirit was successful in their efforts to repel the attackers because they had an excellent security plan and a well trained crew. No passenger was injured on the vessel and just one crewmember sustained minor injuries.
Posted by Editor Offshore Arabia Magazine
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