New anti-piracy security solution on offer

With a lot of commercial shipping in the region transiting the Gulf of Aden and by-passing the Somalia coast, the Dubai-based Sharaf Shipping Agency (SSA) has set out to counteract the growing threat of maritime piracy and terrorism. “This,” said a spokesman for the local agents, Diamond Shipping, “has emerged as a formidable threat in the world, impacting negatively on the seaborne trade and commerce. The result has been the provision by SSA of what it terms “professional and protective security solutions” for vessels transiting through the Gulf of Aden. In an alliance with US-based SEAL Security, the companies have devised customised security solutions for ships working in this hostile and difficult environment – with a core service offering a 6-man, 4 assault dog security team; around-the-clock observers using advanced optics and technology; a 24-hour patrol team on deck; and a tactical leader in radio communication with all personnel. The emphasis, according to Sharaf Shipping, is on avoidance and prevention of boarding by pirates. The services also include training of the crew on safety and lock-down procedures in the event of an attack.