A resurgence of piracy off the coast of Somalia is causing fresh headaches for the global shipping industry, already grappling with disruptions from attacks by Yemen’s Houthi militia in the Red Sea.
Renewed Threat After a Decade of Calm
In a recent incident, Somali pirates hijacked a Bangladeshi-owned bulk carrier, the Abdullah, in the western Indian Ocean. The crew sent a distress signal but received no help in time. The pirates then boarded the vessel, taking the captain and second officer hostage. This incident marks a worrying return of piracy in a region that international navies believed they had secured over a decade ago.
The renewed pirate activity is adding significant costs and security concerns to shipping companies. These attacks come on top of existing dangers posed by Houthi drone and missile strikes in nearby waters. Since November 2023, there have been over 20 attempted hijackings, driving up insurance premiums and the demand for armed security guards on board ships.
Somali pirates appear to be exploiting a reduction in international naval patrols in the region. These patrols were significantly scaled back as the threat of piracy receded in recent years. Experts believe the pirates are emboldened by the Houthis’ attacks in the Red Sea, seeing them as an opportunity to re-establish themselves.
International Community Considers Response
The international community is now weighing its response to this renewed threat. While a recent intervention by the Indian Navy freed a hijacked ship, the long-term solution is likely to involve a combination of approaches. Experts suggest a potential increase in patrols, but also emphasize the importance of strengthening Somalia’s own law enforcement capabilities at sea and on land.
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has called for a focus on bolstering Somalia’s domestic capacity to combat piracy, arguing that a long-term solution requires a more sustainable approach than relying solely on international warships. Somalia’s coast guard currently faces significant resource constraints, with only one functional vessel out of its entire fleet.
The shipping industry faces a delicate balancing act. While increased security measures like armed guards are effective deterrents against piracy, they also add significant costs to shipping operations. Finding the right balance between security and affordability will be crucial for navigating this challenging environment.
Hope for a Collaborative Solution
Despite the renewed threat, there is reason for cautious optimism. The international community remains committed to helping Somalia tackle piracy. Collaborative efforts focused on strengthening Somali law enforcement alongside a measured increase in patrols could offer a path towards a more secure future for global shipping lanes.
Source: ReutersÂ
