[260511.EN.SEA] IMO Okays Armed Guards On Ships In Pirate-Infested Waters off Somalia

THE UN's International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has approved the deployment of private armed guards aboard ships in pirate-infested waters off Somalia after a meeting at its London headquarters.

"Placing armed guards on board should only be considered after a risk assessment has been carried out. It is also important to involve the master in the decision making," said the IMO statement.

The newly formed Security Association for the Maritime Industry (SAMI), 10-12 per cent of ships transitting pirate-infested waters employ armed guards for which SAMI is seeking to establish service standards.

The naval contingent in the area, EU NAVFOR, said 23 ships and 518 seafarers hostages are still captive.

Source : HKSG, 25.05.11.