Piracy - Frequently Asked Questions developed by the International Group

4 June 2009

The number of ships being attacked by pirates operating out of Somalia shows no signs of abatement.  The recent capture of two vessels north of the Seychelles demonstrates that the risk now extends to areas beyond the immediate coastline of Somalia.  Of greater encouragement are reports of an increase in the number of attacks being successfully deterred which may indicate that crew are more effectively deploying counter-measures (see the OCIMF guidelines referred to below).

Determining where cover for the consequences of pirate attacks falls requires a careful assessment of the factual circumstances, the nature of the loss and the particular insurance arrangements in each case.  In an endeavour to help illustrate the considerations involved, and also to answer common Member enquiries on the subject of piracy, the International Group has developed the attached Frequently Asked Questions.

It is recommended that Members compare their own security measures and precautions against the practical guidelines issued by The Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF) - as developed in conjunction with shipowner organisations and the International Group. The latest version of these guidelines can be downloaded from the recent News Alert entitled "OCIMF: Piracy - The East Africa / Somalia Situation - Practical Measures to Avoid, Delay or Deter Piracy Attacks" which is now in the Archive column on the right hand side of this web-page.