Maritime Authorities Warn Crews & Workers about Risks of Pirate Attacks
As the captain of the cargo ship that was attacked by Somalian pirates was rescued, Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) issued a special advisory warning to mariners and workers, explaining that they should be extremely vigilant while navigating the waters off the coast of Somali.
Last week's riveting hostage drama ended with Captain Richard Phillips' rescue; although, the pirates have now warned of revenge against American ships. The Maersk Alabama, a 17,000 ton cargo vessel, was hijacked by a group of pirates last Wednesday. The ship was loaded with relief supplies for the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to help feed malnourished people in Somalia. The pirates were armed with automatic weapons and rocket propelled grenades, but the 20-member maritime crew managed to negotiate their release. 
The crew included Colin Wright, a Galveston resident. The captain, Richard Philips, gave himself up as a hostage to the pirates in return for the safe release of his crew members. The ship safely returned to port and after a five day standoff, Phillips too was rescued when snipers killed three of the pirates and took one into custody.
Meanwhile, CMF issued a special maritime advisory, pointing out the pirate attacks that have occurred off the Somali coast, and asking ships and their maritime crew workers to be vigilant and prepared to handle attacks. The advisory also says that despite the presence of ships and aircraft in the region, they are not likely to be able to provide support to a vessel in the event of a pirate attack. The advisory strongly underscores the kind of dangers maritime workers and crew face in this time of increased piracy.
Maritime Pirate Attacks
It has become clear that current maritime training is not sufficient for workers to handle the kind of aggressive pirate attacks taking place. For instance, maritime workers are not equipped to deal with hostage situations. Training programs and maritime safety procedures need to be revised and enhanced to ensure the safety of workers in case of a pirate attack. Maritime companies should also look at how they can increase the security of their own vessels in order to resist attacks and ensure the safety of their workers.
If you've been injured in a maritime accident, a maritime lawyer can help you recover compensation for your injuries. Contact a maritime lawyer at Arnold & Itkin LLP to discuss your case.
