Increased threat to shipping / Gulf of Guinea 01-220121

INCREASED THREAT TO SHIPPING

 

Event: Report of increased threat to shipping 

 

Date: 22 January 2021

 

Description: MDAT-GoG have released the following notice:

 

“MDAT-GOG is aware that there is potential increased threat of piracy activity in the coming hours/days in Areas E / D.

We highly recommend to the seafarer community and ships transiting in these areas to exercise a sharp look-out and apply BMP WA procedure.”

 

Areas A and D include the waters of Togo, Benin, Nigeria, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Sao Tome and Principe and the northern part of Gabon from Port Gentil northwards.

 

There is a sustained and consistent threat to all types of merchant shipping in the area. Vessels should note:

• Pirates have attacked tankers, bulk carriers and cargo vessels.
• It is likely that pirates will remain in the area until a successful attack.
• Even if an attack fails, pirates may attempt to attack the vessel again. It is therefore vitally important that vessels remain vigilant even after deterring one attack.

 

ARC will update if any further information is received.