IMO: Statement on the resurgence of piracy in the western Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden region – Chair of the Djibouti Code of Conduct/Jeddah Amendment (DCoC/JA)

The Chair of the Djibouti Code of Conduct and Jeddah Amendment (DCoC/JA), currently held by South Africa, has issued a formal statement regarding the concerning resurgence of piracy in the Western Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden. Despite years of suppression, recent incidents near the Somali coast indicate that maritime threats remain active. This development poses significant risks to merchant vessels transiting these critical trade routes, necessitating heightened vigilance from crews operating near major ports like Djibouti and Salalah.

From a regulatory perspective, this resurgence necessitates strict adherence to the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, which is mandated under SOLAS Chapter XI-2. Compliance departments must ensure that Ship Security Plans (SSP) are updated to reflect current threat assessments in the High Risk Area (HRA). Furthermore, vessels should maintain full compliance with Best Management Practices (BMP5) to deter unauthorized boarding. Failure to implement these security measures can lead to insurance complications and potential detention during Port State Control inspections in regional jurisdictions.

Masters and navigating officers must now prioritize rigorous anti-piracy drills and maintain a constant lookout for suspicious skiffs. These officers are responsible for ensuring that citadel procedures are fully operational and that all bridge security protocols are strictly followed. By maintaining a proactive defensive posture and reporting any unusual maritime activity to the UKMTO, these professionals play a vital role in safeguarding the vessel, the cargo, and the lives of the entire crew on board.