18
Effects of counter-measures
18
Many of the recently reported incidents have been either evaded or successfully resisted, implying both a greater awareness by masters and a use of both evasive manoeuvring and good protective security. The International Maritime Bureau (IMB) reports an increase in failed attacks from 10% (11) in 1991 to 16% (17) in 1992. But the most significant case was that of the motor tanker Al Zahrah in the Phillip Channel which when boarded, on 26 January 1992, by 4 to 5 men, radioed immediately to Singapore RCC which relayed the message to the Singapore Police Coastguard which, in turn, alerted the Indonesian security authorities, which consequently apprehended those involved. This was
a first class example of good co-ordination of counter-measures when:
the master made an immediate report;
the Singapore authorities reacted immediately; and
H
the Indonesian authorities intercepted the robbers.
Future collection, collation, assessment and dissemination of piracy information
Background
19
As has already been stated in Chapter 1, the collection, collation, assessment and dissemination of accurate information and statistics on attacks by pirates and armed robbers at sea is critical in countering the threat.
are as follows:
reasons
.1
.2
.3
.4
Collection
The
Such information acts as the thermometer which can be used to measure the precise levels of such acts of piracy and armed robbery and thereby determine the effectiveness of counter-measures and the level of risk to ships in various areas.
By studying the patterns and modus operandi of such attacks, current advice on protective measures can be issued to merchant ships. Also security forces (police, navies and, perhaps, air forces) can develop effective counter-measures to neutralize the perpetrators.
The possession of such information will allow agencies such as IMB's RPC (Regional Piracy Centre) to issue appropriate warnings to ships and owners that seek advice. This service is already available from the RPC based in Kuala Lumpur, although it is hampered by limited statistical evidence. The work of the Centre needs to be enhanced and supported by all the agencies involved.
Accurate statistics can be used by Governments and other authorities concerned to counter, as necessary, the wilder stories published by the media.
20 The collection of statistics on acts of piracy and armed robbery depends principally on reports from the masters of the ships attacked. However, security forces may also have their own sources of such information. Accordingly, it is judged imperative that all attacks are reported immediately by radio to the nearest RCC or coast radio station and followed up by a more detailed written report to the following:
W/9181e
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