How to Avoid Being Robbed by Pirates During an Export Trip on the Red Sea

Kelolalut.com The Red Sea is one of the world’s most vital shipping routes, connecting the Indian Ocean to the Mediterranean via the Suez Canal. However, it is also notorious for piracy, especially near the Gulf of Aden and along the Somali coast. Pirates target commercial vessels, demanding ransoms or looting cargo. If you're involved in export operations in these waters, taking precautions is crucial. Here’s how to minimize the risk of being robbed by pirates during your export trip.

1. Plan Your Route Strategically

Before embarking on your journey, carefully plan your route. Stick to the Internationally Recommended Transit Corridor (IRTC), a designated shipping lane patrolled by naval forces. This corridor has a higher security presence, reducing the likelihood of attacks. Utilize updated piracy risk maps and intelligence reports to stay informed about high-risk areas and recent pirate activity.

2. Maintain High-Speed Transit

Pirates primarily target slow-moving vessels, as they are easier to board. When traveling through high-risk waters, maintain a speed of at least 18 knots, if possible. Many pirate skiffs lack the capability to catch up with fast-moving ships, making speed one of your best defences.

3. Increase Onboard Security

Enhancing your vessel’s security can deter pirates from attempting an attack. Here are some effective measures:

• Razor Wire & Barriers: Install razor wire along railings to make it harder for pirates to climb aboard.
• Water Cannons: High-pressure water hoses can be used to push away boarding attempts.
• Long-Range Acoustic Devices (LRADs): These non-lethal sonic weapons emit deafening sounds that can disorient attackers.
• Secure Access Points: Lock all entry points and reinforce doors to delay access in case of an attempted hijack.

4. Employ Armed Security Personnel

Having armed guards onboard is one of the most effective deterrents against piracy. Many commercial vessels hire private maritime security companies to provide armed protection. Pirates are less likely to attack ships with visible armed guards, as they prefer easy targets.

5. Utilize Naval Escorts and Protection

International naval forces patrol high-risk zones in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Some countries offer convoy escort services for merchant ships. If possible, coordinate with military authorities such as the European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) or the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) for added protection.

6. Stay in Constant Communication

Ensure your ship remains in regular contact with maritime security centres such as:

• UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO)
• Maritime Security Centre – Horn of Africa (MSC-HOA)
• International Maritime Bureau (IMB) Piracy Reporting Centre

If an attack is imminent, alert authorities immediately to increase your chances of receiving assistance.

7. Follow Best Management Practices (BMP5)

The shipping industry has established Best Management Practices (BMP5) for ships traveling through piracy hotspots. These guidelines provide step-by-step security measures to prevent hijackings and ensure crew safety. All crew members should be trained on these practices before entering dangerous waters.

Piracy in the Red Sea remains a significant threat, but with proper planning and security measures, you can reduce the risk of being robbed. Staying informed, maintaining high speed, employing deterrents, and coordinating with naval forces can help ensure a safer export trip. Taking these precautions could mean the difference between a smooth journey and a costly hijacking.

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