THE focus on shipboard armed guards on vessels transiting high risk areas should not become the norm, GAC Group's Protective Solutions vice president Christer Sjodoff told delegates attending a recent London seminar.
GAC Protective Solutions sells onboard crew training, pre-voyage preparation and defensive configurations, including the latest citadel door protection from Intelligent Engineering, remotely-operated water cannon from Unifire, and real-time intelligence alerts on global maritime security problems.
Said Mr Sjodoff: "While there is value in providing armed support on some vessels transiting high risk areas, we feel strongly that this approach should not become a widespread industry norm.
"Rather, we should ensure that owners and operators have access to the latest intelligence regarding current and developing patterns of sea crime, as well as the means to proactively harden their vessels and train all crew members ahead of any voyage, both of which are fundamental to combating sea crimes," said Mr Sjodoff.
GAC Protective Solutions is a partnership between global Dubai forwarder GAC and Hereford, England-based security contractor AKE, whose personnel are linked to the Special Air Service Regiment based nearby.
AKE maritime director Rick Filon, who detailed recent developments in sea crime off the east and west coasts of Africa, said: "As an industry, we have rushed to arm ourselves against a violent threat, which is understandable. However, this is neither a proportionate response nor a sustainable long-term solution. Further, the simple presence of arms on board may even lead to an escalation of violence.
"Whilst we must always remain vigilant, it is clear that effective risk mitigation and the use of preventative solutions provide a global, cost effective and safe solution that is proportionate to the threat of sea crime."
GAC employs more than 9,000 people in more than 300 offices worldwide.
WORLD SHIPPING
25 June 2012 - 11:39
Non-lethal measures long-term key to combating piracy at sea: GAC
THE focus on shipboard armed guards on vessels transiting high risk areas should not become the norm, GAC Group's Protective Solutions vice president Christer Sjodoff told delegates attending a recent London seminar.
WORLD SHIPPING
25 June 2012 - 11:39
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