The Netherlands takes over Force Command of Operation Atalanta

New Force Commander:
Commodore Peter
Lenselink, RNLN

Earlier today, Tuesday 6 August, Commodore Jorge Novo Palma Portuguese Navy handed over the Force Command of EU Naval Force (EU NAVFOR) Somalia Operation Atalanta to Commodore Peter Lenselink Royal Netherlands Navy during a change of command ceremony aboard NRP Álvares Cabral in the Port of Djibouti.

Deputy Operation Commander of EU Naval Force Rear Admiral Jean Martens presided over the handover.

The outgoing Force Commander reflected on a very successful four months in command:

“During the past four months there were no confirmed attacks on merchant vessels within the area of operations and it has been over a year since the last ship was hijacked by pirates.  Also the protection of World Food Programme aid ships by EU Naval Force warships has ensured that over 21,000 tonnes of food and other aid have been safely delivered to the Somalia people. To all the units that have been part of EU NAVFOR force, the crew of the flagship and the Force Headquarters staff, I want to express to all of you that is has been an honour and a privilege to work with you and share the accomplishment of our mission.”

During Commodore Palma’s time as Force Commander, the EU Naval Force continued to strengthen links with regional states and continued with the maritime  capacity building programme throughout the area of operations.  EU Naval Force also hosted a meeting between members of the Somali Federal Government and the EU on board NRP Alvares Cabral off the coast of Mogadishu.  NRP Alvares Cabral was the first EU Naval Force ship to visit the port of Mozambique.

New flagship: HNLMS Johan de Witt 

The new Force Commander Commodore Peter Lenselink will command the EU Naval Force from the Dutch Warship HNLMS Johan de Witt for the next 4 months.  During the handover ceremony he stated, “I am very honored to fulfill this important task.  It is my intention to continue to command the operation in the same proactive and engaging was as my predecessors, vigorously executing the mandate of EUNAVFOR operation Atalanta . It is also my intention to work as closely as possible with the other EU missions that operate in the region, EUTM and EUCAP NESTOR, in order to support the EU’s comprehensive approach”.

Following the transfer of command, the Deputy Operation Commander of EU NAVFOR, Rear Admiral Jean Martens, thanked Commodore Palma for his achievements and welcomed Commodore Lenselink.  He went on to say that:

“We should always remember that the reduction in pirate attacks is entirely reversible until Somalia is able to police and protect its own waters. The European Union Naval Force will advise Somalia in developing a maritime security strategy and will continue to deter and disrupt piracy. At the same time, we will help support the EU’s comprehensive approach to Somalia in cooperation with other EU Missions and the other counter piracy operations from NATO and Combined Maritime Forces.”

The ceremony was attended by distinguished guests from many nations as well as representatives from the Djiboutian Authorities, other EU Missions and representatives of the units of EU Naval Force.

EU NAVFOR Operation ATALANTA main tasks are to escort merchant vessels carrying humanitarian aid of the World Food Program (WFP) and vessels of AMISOM, and to protect vulnerable ships in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean and to deter and disrupt piracy. EUNAVFOR also monitors fishing activity off the coast of Somalia.

Joint Operations Room, HNLMS Johan de Witt

Force Commander: Commodore Peter Lenselink

The Force Commander exercises command and control of all military forces in the Area of Operation. He is responsible for the planning, orchestration and execution of military activities.

Commodore Peter William Lenselink was born in 1958 in Vught (NL). During his schooldays he lived in Germany ( 1967 – 1970) and in Surinam (1971- 1974). In 1976 he joined the Royal Netherlands Naval College as Midshipman. He was commissioned as Naval Officer in 1979. Between 1979 and 1983 he served as watchkeeping and flightdeck officer on HNLMS Van Speijk and HNLMS Bloys van Treslong.

On completion of the maritime warfare course in 1984 he served as warfare officer/ASW specialist on board frigates. In 1988 he joined the Operational School as instructor Anti Submarine Warfare. In 1989 he was promoted to Lieutenant Commander and became Head of the Operational Trainer Department. He returned to the fleet again in 1991 as Operations Officer of HNLMS Bloys van Treslong. During this period he served for the fourth time in NATO’s Standing Naval Force Atlantic. After this tour he was selected for the long staff course at Defence Staff College ‘Ypenberg’.

After graduation in December 1993 he was appointed Flag Lieutenant to the Commander-in- Chief Royal Netherlands Navy, followed by a tour as Staff Officer Operations in the Belgian –Netherlands Destroyer Squadron. He assumed command of the frigate HNLMS Philips van Almonde in 1997. During this tour the ship was deployed for 6 months as West Indian Guard Ship.

In November 1998 he was appointed Chief of Staff of the Belgian Netherlands Task Group. February 2000 he joined the Naval Staff at The Hague as Deputy Director International Plans and Policy/ Foreign Liaison Officer.

In April 2002, promoted to Captain, he was appointed Executive Assistant to the Commander-in- Chief Royal Netherlands Navy. December 2004 he returned to the fleet to take command of the Sea Training Command.

 On 10 June 2007 he was promoted to Commodore. He took over command as Flag Officer Netherlands Forces in the Caribbean (FONLFORCARIB) on 28 June 2007. In that capacity he was also Director of the Coast Guard for the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba (DCGNA&A) and Commander Task Group 4.4. (CTG 4.4). In July 2010 he became Commander Netherlands Maritime Force (COMNLMARFOR).

Commodore Lenselink and his wife Anne Mieke live with their children Tim (1996) and Julia (1998) in Voorschoten, The Netherlands. He is interested in international affairs, architecture and sports (tennis, running and swimming).

(EU Navfor, 6 August 2013)

NATO Commander Reflects on 100 Days in Counter Piracy

On 6th June, Commodore Ben Bekkering took over as Commander of NATO’s counter piracy mission, Operation Ocean Shield. Today, with ships patrolling the shipping corridor in the Gulf of Aden and present in front of the Somali coast, the Task Force remains ready to prevent successful pirate attacks.

Cdre Ben Bekkering

Since then two merchant ships have been attacked by pirates however neither were successful. This represents a significant decline compared to previous periods. More importantly, no merchant ships have been hijacked by pirates since May. This does not mean that the pirates don’t try. On two occasions over
the Summer, they managed to hijack a dhow which could have been used as a mothership from which to launch attacks. On both occasions the pirates were disrupted by the NATO warships, HNLMS Evertsen and HNLMS Rotterdam but they still hold seven ships and 177 crewmembers hostage.

During September as the weather improves and fishermen go back out to sea, this is the time that the pirates resume their activities. By using calm seas and forcing dhows to move them to and around their hunting grounds, the pirates continue to seek opportunities to stalk and attack the many merchant ships that transit the vital shipping lanes around the Horn of Africa.

Lieutenant Commander Mac de Jong, staff officer on board the NATO flagship, HNLMS Rotterdam, is very  happy with the declining success rates of the pirates. “We are not there yet, the success is still reversible.  Therefore we need to seek ways to maximise the pressure. We are making considerable progress, we  must now maintain the momentum.”

NATO’s Task Force has used the past monsoon period to gather information on areas where pirates may venture out at sea. Using surveillance by aircraft and ships along the coast where the seas allowed pirates to operate, NATO has built up a good picture of what has been happening along the coast of Somalia.

As NATO warships patrol off the coast of Somalia, it presents an excellent opportunity to invite local elders and community leaders to meet NATO at sea. Commodore Ben Bekkering explains: “By meeting village elders and explaining to the villagers what we do and why, we hope to build trust, exchange information and ensure that the improving maritime safety and security will also benefit them.”

From these meetings it is clear that the local populations strongly oppose piracy and will do all they can to work with the international counter piracy effort. Bekkering adds, “I am sure that in the villages we found new partners. They can play a vital role to put more pressure on the pirates. If we can drive the pirates out, it will have a positive effect on the development of the region.”

NATO is working alongside EUNAVFOR, Combined Maritime Forces and individual nations to tackle acts of piracy.  By joining forces, counter piracy efforts are more effective and can achieve more than any one ship, navy, organisation or country working alone.

(NATO Press Release, 20 September 2012)

NATO counter-piracy task force engages coastal villages

Piracy is being pushed back. Naval presence and measures to prepare and defend merchant ships against attacks seem to pay off. Pirates need to disperse their activities ashore and disguise their operations at sea, for fear of being detected and disrupted prematurely. But we are not there yet. We must continue to seek ways to apply even more pressure on the pirate’s syndicates, turning profits into losses. One of the ways to do that is to make it increasingly difficult for pirates to prepare for their activities and depart to sea.

Coastal village

Ashore is where the pirates find their supplies and attackskiffs with strong outboard engines. Ashore is where the pirates affect community life and prevent development. Close ashore is where the pirates find the dhows they use as mothership. And close ashore is where they hold their hijacked vessels for huge ransoms. To seek more knowledge of and interaction with the coast seems therefore a logical progression of the counter piracy effort.

TF 508 has sought ways to engage with the coastal villages. Starting with visits to fishing skiffs and trading dhows, meetings with elders quickly followed. Those village elders explained us about the shore side view on piracy. About the fact that piracy has made things difficult. The basic needs the villages have. The lack of aid and assistance, the lack of basic healthcare. They also explained the lack of knowledge of the tasks and missions of the warships in front of their coast. Were they there to help, or to prevent illegal fishing, as the original pirates would always claim?

Somali fishermen

In further increasing the pressure on the pirates, the villages and their leaders can become valuable allies. By conducting regular visits, meeting the elders and providing small scale medical assistance, we gain trust, we exchange information and we reassure the people that together we must counter piracy. Now we have to see if we can make this an effective counter piracy measure, by preventing pirates to go to sea and when they do, to catch them well before they can become a danger. To safeguard international shipping, but also ensure safe regional and local trade and fishing. Not just today or tomorrow, but also for the longer term.

Commodore Ben Bekkering,
Commander, NATO Task Force 508
Operation Ocean Shield

(Defensie weblog, 16 september 2012)

NATO flagship offers medical assistance to Somali people

On Sept. 3, the NATO flagship HNLMS Rotterdam was able to deliver medical assistance off the northeast coast of Somalia, while conducting its counter piracy mission in Operation Ocean Shield. Shortly after sunrise, Rotterdam anchored a few miles off the coast near the village of Bandar Murcayo and deployed a medical team and improvised facilities via landing craft. As the craft approached the coastline, the villagers used small boats to reach the medical team aboard the landing craft, where they were able to receive basic medical examinations and assistance. The following day, the flagship moved to the coast off Xabo and provided similar medical assistance for the people there.

Photo: Royal Netherlands Navy

During the two-day operation, the medical team provided assistance to over 150 villagers. "During these medical visits we saw a lot of villagers with a variety of medical issues” said Surgeon Capt. Chris Bleeker, the anaesthetist on board the flagship who led the deployed medical team. "Some people were able to be treated fully; others were offered partial treatment within the facilities available. All the villagers were happy to receive medical attention, some for the first time ever, and all went back home smiling”, said Capt. Bleeker.

The provision of this type of medical support is not an integral part of the Operation Ocean Shield Mandate, but is occasionally conducted when resources and the tactical situation permit. The NATO task force is in the region to conduct maritime operations off the Horn of Africa in to deter and disrupt pirate activities in conjunction with other nations and organisations. NATO and other deployed naval forces maintain international law on the High Seas, reduce threats to international shipping routes and assist in stabilizing the maritime environment in the region.

With the counter piracy effort increasingly effective and the number of pirate attacks low because of the current monsoon period, HNLMS Rotterdam has used this quiet time to go out and meet the local population at sea. "To further improve our effectiveness, we must seek ways to stop the pirates from going to sea in the first place,” said Commodore Ben Bekkering, Commander of NATO Task Force 508. "Our ships patrolled coastal waters, talking to dhows and skiffs and listening to the stories of the crews. This effort led to a meeting two weeks ago between a group of village elders from the region and myself on board Rotterdam. There, elders requested general support, to reassure the people and create an atmosphere where villagers stand up against the pirates and inform authorities of their activities. This medical assistance is an example of how the NATO ships can use their facilities to help the Somali people. Looking at all the faces on board the landing craft, we can leave knowing we have made a small difference to the lives of these villagers and have been able to put our skills to practical use. For us this is a small step, but for the mission this is considerable progress.”

Background Information:
NATO has contributed to the international counter piracy effort off the Horn of Africa since December 2008. The mission has expanded from escorting UN and World Food Programme Shipping under Operation Allied Provider and protecting merchant traffic in the Gulf of Aden under Operation Allied Protector. In addition to these activities and as part of the latest mission, Operation Ocean Shield, NATO is working with other international bodies to help develop capacity of countries in the region to tackle piracy on their own.

HNLMS Rotterdam

Standing NATO Maritime Group 1 is permanently assigned to NATO. It is a multi-national Naval Group that provides the NATO Alliance with the ability to quickly respond to crisis situations anywhere in the world. A capable, stand-alone task group and one of four standing maritime elements that form a flexible core around which NATO can build a larger force to meet a wide range of missions that will include non-combatant evacuations, consequence management, counter terrorism, crisis response, embargo operations, etc.

HNLMS Rotterdam, flagship of NATO Task Force 508, continues her patrol within Operation Ocean Shield, the NATO-contribution to the international counter piracy effort in the waters around the Horn of Africa. The ship has 350 people embarked, from all services and from 8 NATO-countries.

NATO Allies agreed on 19 March 2012 to extend Operation Ocean Shield for a further two years until the end of 2014.

NATO Forces currently in Operation Ocean Shield:

HNLMS Rotterdam (flagship) The Netherlands
USS Halyburton (Unites States of America)
Challenger Maritime Patrol Aircraft (Denmark)

(NATO/Allied Command Operations, 6 September 2012)

The big three counter-piracy Task Forces urge ship owners to keep up their guard

European Union Naval Force Somalia – Operation Atalanta, NATO and Combined Task Force 151 (CTF 151) – the big three – call upon the shipping industry to continue to take anti-piracy measures despite the current downward trend in piracy events.

In a recent report published by the International Maritime Bureau it was announced that there was a 54% drop in global piracy during the first half of 2012.  One of the key contributors to this welcome development was the fall in both Somali hijackings and attacks.  There are many factors which have led to this, two of which were the work of military forces in the region and self-protection measures taken by commercial shipping

“We currently see a tactical and reversible success. It is of utmost importance that pressure on Somali pirates and their business model is maintained and even increased as the strategic context, the situation in Somalia allowing for pirates to act, has not yet changed” said Deputy Operation Commander Rear Admiral Gualtiero Mattesi, “International Navies and all merchant vessels transiting the High Risk Area, need to remain vigilant and uphold their respective responsibilities to support the fight against piracy.”

By joining forces, counter piracy efforts are more effective and can achieve more than any one ship, navy, organisation or country working alone.  Even with all this military presence, the efforts of our naval forces cannot guarantee safety in the region.  It is for this reason that CTF 151, NATO and the EU remind all ship-owners, operators and managers to continue to educate and train their mariners in both the threat and how to mitigate it.

The booklet Best Management Practices version 4 (BMP4) provides useful updates for masters in implementing protection measures to deter piracy. It is based on lessons learned from ships’ masters and can be downloaded from the NATO Shipping Centre and EU NAVOR/Maritime Security Centre – Horn of Africa websites (www.shipping.nato.int, www.mschoa.org) where you can find information about the latest pirate eattacks and where they occurred.

Working together the military and the maritime industry is having a positive effect in frustrating the efforts of pirates.  Despite the recent encouraging news now is not the time to lessen the efforts of all stakeholders in this area.

(EUNAVFOR, 3 September 2012)

Counter-Piracy ‘Big Three’ Meet At Sea

On 24 August 2012 the Force Commanders from the EU Naval Force Somalia – Operation Atalanta (EU NAVFOR), NATO Operation Ocean Shield (TF-508) and Combined Task Force 151 (operated by the Combined Maritime Forces – CMF) met on board the EU NAVFOR flagship ITS San Guisto (Italian Navy) to further enhance the cooperation and coordination in the fight against piracy.

The flagships, ITS San Giusto (EU NAVFOR), HNLMS Rotterdam (NATO) and the ROKS Wang Geon (CTF-151) rendezvoused in the Gulf of Aden to allow the three Force Commanders to meet face to face.

(Left to Right) Rear Admiral Anho Chung,
Rear Admiral Enrico Credendino, Commodore Ben Bekkering 

Dutch NATO Commander Commodore Ben Bekkering and CTF-151 Commander Rear Admiral Anho Chung from the Republic of Korea were welcomed by Italian EU NAVFOR Force Commander Rear Admiral Enrico Credendino aboard the San Giusto.

The three Counter-Piracy forces coordinate their actions on a daily basis to enhance their capability and effectiveness in deterring, disrupting and counteracting piracy off the Somali coast and in the Gulf of Aden.  Although modern means of communications allow reliable long distance exchanges of information and a continuous flow of communications, face to face meetings are still very important.

This was the second time that the three main Counter-Piracy forces have met at sea; the first time having occurred on 23 July 2012 onboard HNMLS Evertsen (former flagship of Ocean Shield-NATO Commander).

The three Force Commanders discussed the strategic and tactical situation of piracy since the beginning of 2012 and agreed that, whilst the recent downturn in piracy off the Horn is Africa is welcomed, that military forces need to remain vigilant to further attacks by pirates on ships transiting the area.

(EUNAVFOR, 24 August 2012)

VN: Puntland opnieuw centrum Somalische piraten

Annex 4.4.: Movement of piracy proceeds offshore (STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL)*



Bovenstaande lege (want strikt vertrouwelijke) bijlage moet een van de meest interessante delen zijn van het nieuwste VN-rapport over Somalië. Het zal antwoord geven op de vraag: "waarheen (buiten Somalië zelf) gaat het losgeld dat voor gekaapte schepen en bemanningen is betaald?"

Dat de VN deze informatie onder de pet houdt is niet zo vreemd. Het gaat immers om lopend onderzoek, en het is niet zo slim om betrokken partijen publiekelijk inzicht te geven over de informatiepositie van de VN.

Nederland speelt bij dit onderzoek ook een rol. Het kabinet zegde begin dit jaar twee experts en 300.000 euro toe aan een op de Seychellen in te richten Regional Anti-Piracy Prosecutions and Intelligence Coordination Centre (RAPPICC), zie Kamerbrief . Met de bouw van een kantoor voor deze nieuwe instantie is eerder deze maand begonnen, meldt het Britse ministerie van Buitenlandse Zaken.

Piraterij is overigens maar één onderdeel van het nieuwste Report of the Monitoring Group on Somalia and Eritrea pursuant to Security Council resolution 2002 (2011). De Monitoring Group doet er de volgende aanbevelingen aan de Veiligheidsraad in:

116. The Monitoring Group recommends that:

(a) The Committee should proceed without further delay to designate known pirates and their associates identified by the Monitoring Group or Member States for targeted measures;

(b) The Security Council should consider the possibility of establishing a specialized investigative group of experts with a mandate to collect information, gather evidence and record testimonies relating to acts of Somali piracy, including and especially the identification of pirate leaders, financiers, negotiators, facilitators, support networks and beneficiaries;

(c) The Security Council should consider making explicit reference, in its next resolutions on Somalia and piracy, to the Monitoring Group’s responsibility of investigating and identifying key individuals responsible for acts of piracy off the coast of Somalia, as well as the movement and investment of piracy proceeds, and call upon Governments, international organizations and national law enforcement agencies to exchange evidence and information with a view to the arrest and the prosecution of senior pirate leaders and their associates, or to their designation for targeted measures;

(d) The Security Council should consider options for the establishment of an international regulatory authority that regulates, monitors and inspects the activities of private maritime security companies operating floating armouries and providing armed protection to vessels in international waters.

Aanbeveling (d) is extra interessant voor Nederland, gelet op de levendige discussie tussen overheid en reders over de inzet van particuliere gewapende beveiligers op schepen die de Nederlandse vlag voeren. Volgens de reders is dat schering en inslag, maar het is op basis van de Nederlandse wetgeving verboden. De VN Monitoring Group pleit voor een internationaal toezichtsorgaan dat de activiteiten van gewapende beveiligers moet gaan reguleren en controleren.

III. Violations of the general and complete arms embargo
(...)

C. Private maritime security companies/floating armouries

72. The unmonitored and largely unregulated activities of private maritime security companies off the coast of Somalia, offering armed protection to ships and crews traversing the high-risk area, may represent a potential new channel for the flow of arms and ammunition into Somalia and the region.

73. During the course of the mandate of the Monitoring Group, this highly profitable business has expanded beyond the provision of armed escorts to the leasing of arms, ammunition and security equipment, and the establishment of “floating armouries” that operate in international waters beyond the remit of any effective international regulatory authority. Private maritime security companies are currently holding approximately 7,000 weapons in circulation, which are either owned or leased.

74. The absence of control and inspection of armed activities inevitably creates opportunities for illegality and abuse, and increases the risk that the maritime security industry will be exploited by unscrupulous and criminal actors, eventually coming to represent a threat to regional peace and security, rather than part of the solution. A detailed analysis of private maritime security companies and floating armouries can be found in annex 5.4.


In bijlage 4 van het rapport noemt de VN-Monitoring Group de belangrijkste trends op het gebied van de piraterij (voor de vele voetnoten en case studies, zie het originele rapport). Wat onder andere opvalt is de onverholen kritiek van de VN op de autoriteiten van het noord-oostelijke gebied Puntland (spreek uit: Boentland). De kleine jongens in de piraterij worden (met royale financiële ondersteuning van donorlanden) wel aangepakt en opgesloten. Tegelijkertijd opereren in Puntland de grote jongens van de piraterijbusiness ongestraft; kloppen de statistieken van de autoriteiten van geen kant, en weigert Puntland tot nu toe zelfs een onderzoek van de VN ter plaatse.

Volgens de Monitoring Group is Puntland sinds begin 2011 weer het belangrijkste centrum van de piraten geworden. Met name het (zee)gebied rond het oostelijk gelegen Garacad wordt wat dit betreft genoemd.

Kritiek is er ook op landen die weinig tot niets doen aan de vervolging van piraten. Het rapport noemt o.a. Griekenland en de Verenigde Arabische Emiraten.

Annex 4.1.: Piracy overview: trends, judicial challenges and impunity

Overview

1. The year 2011 witnessed some positive developments in the battle against Somali piracy. Pirate activity increased, but the proportion of successful attacks dropped dramatically. Early 2012, however, saw a steep decline of around 50 per cent in both attack rates (43 versus 97) and successful hijackings (9 versus 16).

2. Nevertheless, Somali piracy continues to represent a significant threat to international shipping. Somalia’s two main pirate groups, the Puntland Piracy Network (PPN) and the Hobyo-Harardheere Piracy Network (HHPN), both remain active, well-organized and continue to operate from their usual anchorages,3 chiefly Harardheere (HHPN), Garacad (PPN), and a pirate camp some 17 nautical miles north of Bandar Beyla (PPN). From these and other, smaller bases, the pirates range across an immense area comprising the southern Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Indian Ocean (east and south of Somalia down to the north of Mozambique), Arabian Sea and Gulf of Oman. Decreased success rates have been matched by increasingly protracted ransom negotiations, longer periods of captivity for hijacked crews and escalating ransom payments.

3. On 23 March 2012 the Council of the European Union extended the area of operations of the EU Naval Force (EU NAVFOR) counter-piracy mission, Operation Atalanta, to include Somali coastal territory and internal waters, in order to attack pirate camps and logistical bases. A first attack with maritime aircraft and attack helicopters was reportedly carried out in the early hours of 15 May 2012 along Somalia’s coastline in the central region of Gaalmudug. The Monitoring Group believes that this new military strategy has the potential to degrade pirate finances and morale, but its success will depend heavily on the frequency and effectiveness of the attacks, and could be counterproductive if it entails significant civilian casualties. On the other hand, Somali pirates have proven extremely adaptive, and will almost certainly take steps to disperse weapons and equipment, and to rethink their own tactics. One option available to them may be heavier weaponry to defend themselves against future attacks, and in the belief that foreign governments are not prepared to accept casualties in the conduct of counter-piracy missions. Another risk is the possibility of closer cooperation between pirates and Al-Shabaab militias in areas such as Harardheere, where many fighters in both groups are drawn from the same clans. An escalation in violence might also impact upon pirate negotiating demands and the treatment of hostages: a day after the airborne attack on 15 May, for example, Harardheere pirates threatened to kill European hostages in the event of any future attack against them.

Tactics, Techniques, Weapons and Equipment

NATO Warship HNLMS Rotterdam frees hijacked dhow

In the early morning of the 13th of August, the boarding team of HNLMS Rotterdam disrupted a suspected pirate group before they could launch an attack on a merchant ship. The decisive action was the result of a daylong operation of ships and patrol aircraft from NATO and EUNAVFOR.

The search for the suspected pirates started five days ago, when Bossaaso port authorities reported a possible hijacking of a dhow. Two days later, the EU Naval Force unit Lafayette located the dhow. A visit showed that the suspected pirates had transferred to another vessel, the Bourhan Nour. That dhow was located another day later by another EU Naval Force unit, FGS Sachsen.

Landing vessel of HNLMS Rotterdam between Somali coast
and hijacked dhow

It became clear the suspected pirates were bound for Somalia, apparently ready to give up their plans. Commodore Ben Bekkering, Commander of NATO’s counter piracy mission, Operation Ocean Shield explains what action was taken; “To us it seemed highly unlikely that the pirates would want to return to Bossaaso. The authorities there make no secret of their intentions to eradicate piracy. However, to the east of Bossaaso two hijacked ships are still held by the pirates, who seem to be present in the nearby villages as well. We expected the pirates to go there, possibly asking help from their colleagues. We therefore decided to station Rotterdam off the coast, deploying her landing craft in a number of locations, effectively blocking any retreat from or support of the dhow. As expected, the dhow entered the trap. It was then up to Rotterdam.”

Hijacked dhow and EU-flagship FGS Sachsen

“For the pirates it must have been a strange site. Not just Rotterdam and FGS Sachsen from the EU Naval Force Somalia (EUNAVFOR) following closely, but also a helicopter and few landing craft ahead making the coast almost impossible to approach,” explains Captain Huub Hulsker, Commanding Officer of HNLMS Rotterdam. “There was not really anywhere for them to go. Obviously, the main thought is always for the safety of my crew and that of the crew of the dhow. But the situation was clear and some strict orders and two warning shots later, the suspected pirates surrendered. The boarding team was on board and in control of the vessel within the next 20 minutes. A grateful dhow crew, an impressive first action of my whole team early in my deployment and six suspected pirates detained on board, awaiting further decisions - this is a result that counts.”

Dutch marines arrest suspected pirates

NATO is working alongside EUNAVFOR, Combined Maritime Forces and individual nations to fight piracy. By joining forces, counter piracy efforts are more effective and can achieve more than any one ship, navy,  organisation or country working alone.

(NATO Maritime Command Northwood, 14 August 2012)

Dutch Navy using ScanEagle for anti-piracy operations

The Royal Netherlands Navy has started using ScanEagle unmanned aerial vehicles for anti-piracy operations in the Indian Ocean.

On August 8 a ScanEagle took off from the amphibious ship HNMS Rotterdam in the Gulf of Aden on its first operational flight in the region. The aircraft flew for more than nine hours and gathered information for NATO’s Ocean Shield counter-piracy mission.

The Insitu ScanEagle is operated by a team of 19 specialists from the Joint Intelligence Surveillance Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance Command (JISTARC).

"Our job is to provide the commander with information and intelligence to support the preparation and execution of the mission," said Major Chris Sievers, commander of the team. The UAV’s first task was to examine unknown vessels and determine if there was possible pirate activity. "Even in this heat, with about 45 degrees Celsius, the system held up well and we had no problems," said one of the operators.

The amphibious transport ship HNMS Rotterdam is currently patrolling the Gulf of Aden. The 166 meters long Landing Platform Dock has been the flagship of operation Ocean Shield since August 4.

The vessel has more than 350 personnel on board, belonging to the navy, army, air force and gendarmerie. The aims of the mission are to address piracy activities, patrol the Gulf of Aden, secure ships and strengthen ties with international partners, the Dutch Ministry of Defence (MoD) said.

Insitu on March 19 this year announced that it had signed a contract to deliver the ScanEagle system to the Netherlands Ministry of Defence, which would use it both domestically and abroad as an interim replacement for the Sagem Sperwer short range UAV fleet. The system has been providing an intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capability since the second half of this year. It replaced the Sperwer, which was withdrawn on June 29, 2011, as part of Dutch austerity measures, as the Sperwer was more costly to operate.

The Netherlands acquired two ScanEagle systems, each made up of three air vehicles. One system is deployed overseas while the other is to be used for training, domestic operations and as a reserve. The Netherlands will acquire five Insitu RQ-21A systems as a permanent replacement for the Sperwer in 2014.

On August 7 Insitu announced that the Dutch MoD had received authorisation to fly the ScanEagle under a limited military aircraft type-classification certificate.

ScanEagle is a small, lightweight long-endurance UAV in service with the United States, Australia and Canada, amongst others. The aircraft carries a stabilised electro-optical/infrared camera and has an endurance of more than 20 hours – the longest flight has been 22 hours. It has a three metre wingspan and cruises at 110 km/h.

ScanEagle can be operated from ships and other platforms as it is launched from a pneumatic launcher and recovered by catching a hook (mounted on the end of the wingtip) onto a rope hanging on a pole. A GPS mounted on the pole guides the ScanEagle onto the rope.

ScanEagle has been used in combat since 2004 when it was deployed to Iraq, and in April 2009 a ScanEagle launched by the US Navy was used during the stand-off between the US Navy and a lifeboat controlled by pirates holding Captain Richard Phillips of the MV Maersk Alabama in the Indian Ocean after a failed hijack attempt. The UAV was also operated over Libya in 2011.

Insitu announced that the ScanEagle had recently surpassed 600 000 combat flight hours.

(defenceWeb, South Africa, 13 August 2012)

List of Dutch maritime security companies

As of 1 August 2012, 464 (maritime) security companies had adhered to the Swiss-based International Code of Conduct for Private Security Service Providers (ICoC).

Listed below are the firms based in The Netherlands. For the full list, click here.

35. ARGOS Security bv

Signed by:  C.K.A.M. Paans, Managing Director
Date of becoming Signatory Company: 1 February 2011 (by letter)
Headquarters: Netherlands, North Brabant, Geertruidenberg,
Website: www.argos-security.nl

Operating as freelance security consultants since 1997, ARGOS Security bv was established in  2006. The company based in the Netherlands has been operating in North- and West Africa, the Gulf and middle East. Providing security consultancy and training services to  multinational companies operating in the high risk countries within these parts of the world. ARGOS Security bv has specialized themselves in providing professional security consultancy services covering business continuity, crises management, risk assessments, training, security audits and restructuring and. These services are provided on a short or long term base, guiding the clients throughout the process. Our exposure over more as a decade to clients within the Oil & Gas, Construction and tobacco industries provides us with the capability to  provide clients with cost effective solutions to protect their interest abroad.

40. Arxal Risk Management

Signed by: T. Peters, Director
Date of becoming Signatory Company:  1 June 2011 (by letter)
Headquarters: Netherlands, Nijmegen
Website: www.arxalriskmanagement.com

Arxal Risk Management is an innovative Netherlands-based company with international  leadership, providing an outstanding level of Global Security Risk Management Services in  high-risk areas. Arxal was developed by a security consultant operating in the Middle East during the recent conflicts that saw the need for a new innovated way to deliver security and  surveillance to clients. Arxal achieves the paramount level of client service by listening to and understanding our client’s requirements, analysing intelligence and providing bespoke solutions to the client with professional personnel. Along with our professional services we at  all times operate ethically, with integrity, and with respect to people, environment and cultures.  Arxal’s consultation and service provision enables various bodies, including private  companies, governments and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), to fulfil their operational and business activities whilst mitigating risk to their overall aims and strategies. Our values and ethics coupled with extensive military skills and expertise make Arxal Risk Management the premier choice for your security needs worldwide.

102. Dutch Control BV 

Signed by: Aart van Vugt, Director
Date of becoming Signatory Company: 1 December 2011 (by letter)
Headquarters: The Netherlands, Den Hout
Website: www.dutchcontrol.eu

Dutch Control is a Dutch Security company established in 2010 which specializes in providing national and international risk management services. The primary aim of Dutch Control is assisting its clients in conducting their business in high risk areas on a worldwide basis. Dutch  Control employs subcontractors who possess experiences gained within the Dutch Special  Forces and Law Enforcement. Our security advice is based on international standards for Risk Management and is executed by specialized security operatives and experienced consultants. Dutch Control also specializes in Maritimes Security and training, particularly for high risk transit areas. All Ship Security Assessments are conducted by Dutch Control on behalf of our clients as part of a ships security plan complying to international maritime codes.

103. Dutch Security International

Signed by: John Titahena, Executive Director
Date of becoming Signatory Company: 1 October 2011 (by letter)
Headquarters: The Netherlands, Apeldoorn
Website:

The DSI Holding Vision is to provide a cost effective, highly professional and operational  catalyst that will encourage the development of sustainable global maritime safety and security. DSI Holding aims to build, assess and maintain highly proficient military and civilian  operational systems within the fields of maritime safety, security tactics and marine  environmental protection. DSI Holding has a mission is to uphold a multi-faceted and discipline organization that strives to protect worldwide marine resources, maritime objects,  persons and stakeholders whilst respecting International, National and Regional law and  regulation.

123. ESS&SA B.V.

Signed by: Jethro Pijlman, Co-CEO
Date of becoming Signatory Company:  1 April 2011 (by letter)
Headquarters: Netherlands, Amsterdam
Website: www.ess-sa.eu

Operating in the Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean since 2010, ESS&SA BV was established in 2009 and based in the Netherlands. We provide security, consultancy and  training services to multinational shipping companies operating in pirate occupied areas. The security services we provide include armed and un-armed Maritime Security Teams and  Escort Vessels. Our personnel are all former Royal Netherlands Marine Corps or Dutch  Maritime Special Forces personnel, and are qualified maritime professionals. By partnering  with a number of global security organizations along with ESS&SA BV’s outstanding expertise  ESS&SA BV is able to provide each client with the highest quality and most effective security solutions.

152. Griffin & Miller The Netherlands B.V.

Signed by: S. Hendriks, SEO
Date of becoming Signatory Company:  1 June 2011 (by letter)
Headquarters: Netherlands, Noord-Holland, Zaandam
Website: www.griffin-miller.org

Griffin & Miller The Netherlands B.V.is a security company fully licensed by the Dutch  Ministry of Justice. Griffin & Miller is staffed by experienced former military-, law  enforcement- and intelligence officers and provides high quality intelligence, risk control and  security services to an international clientele. The services of Griffin & Miller are supported  by a world-wide network of affiliated agencies.

250. MSS Maritime Security Solutions B.V.

Signed by: Derk Wisman, Managing Director
Date of becoming Signatory Company: 1 August 2011 (by letter)
Headquarters: Netherlands, Rotterdam
Website: www.maritimesecuritysolutions.com

MSS Maritime Security Solutions B.V. is a privately owned and well known organisation in the international maritime security market. Our approach is unique by providing one-stopshopping global maritime security solutions. We provide consultancy, onboard advisory  officers, unarmed and/or armed guards and the supply and installation of products and  technology for detection, identification, deterrence, communication and protection. Our  staff all have a professional background and have served in Navies and on merchant vessels  on a (very) senior level. They have recent and onboard counter piracy experience at (senior)  management level. Our consultants have provided services to leading maritime companies all  around the globe.

300. Pro-Intell security solutions

Signed by: Martijn Bakker, General Manager
Date of becoming Signatory Company: 1 April 2012 (by letter)
Headquarters: The Netherlands, Nijkerkerveen
Website: www.pro-intell.nl

We are Pro-Intell security solutions, our company specializes in services at risk areas worldwide. Pro-Intell security solutions was founded by former members of the Dutch Armed Forces and Elite Forces. Our objective is to provide our military expertise and experience in the world most hostile areas, for the protection of all kinds of targets in hostile and risk areas. These could be persons, high value assets, vessels which are at risk to be hijacked, as well as static, mobile and land targets, such as: locations for storage,  construction sites, convoys and seaports.

307. QPO Maritime Security Company 

Signed by: R.G. van den Berge, Managing Director
Date of becoming Signatory Company:  1 April 2012 (by letter)
Headquarters: The Netherlands, Voorschoten
Website: www.qpo-msc.com

Qua Patet Orbis* Maritime Security Company (QPO MSC) offers professional maritime security  services. We are specialized in protecting ships and drilling platform against external pirate attacks. QPO MSC provides tailored advice regarding maritime security risk management. Based on the location and intended transit route, we assess and analyze the security risks and potential hijacking threats. This allows us to take any necessary preventive measures. We support and advice our clients in making objective and balanced decisions regarding all  matters of maritime security in high-risk situations. Besides our main security task, we  provide various forms of security related training. QPO MSC supports and advises our clients  in taking precautions to reduce the risk of being hijacked. QPO MSC secures and protects  your vessel, platform, crew and cargo by deploying professional security teams. We conduct our tasks in close cooperation with the master of the ship or drilling platform.  We are always focused on protecting our clients from external pirate attacks without putting the crew and cargo at risk.

*Qua Patet Orbis is the motto of the Dutch Marine Corps

348. Schütz Swart International

Signed by: Jeroen Schütz, Director
Date of becoming Signatory Company: 1 December 2011 (by letter)
Headquarters: The Netherlands, Groesbeek
Website: www.schutz-swart.com

Schütz Swart International delivers security risk management services and is specialised in international operations. We provide consultancy, operational support and training enabling  our clients to achieve their goals in high-risk situations. The safety of personnel, assets and  business continuity is the driving force behind our services. Our maritime security services  include a company owned Maritime Security Escort Vessel, Maritime Security Teams and  Maritime Security Consultancy. Schütz & Swart offers high quality services based on the  international experience and expertise of our operators and consultants. This is  complemented by an Advisory Board, which assures the quality of services is compliant with  the highest International Standards.

383. Shore & Offshore Security Group

Signed by: Paul Wiebes, Managing Director
Date of becoming Signatory Company:  1 June 2011 (by letter)
Headquarters: Netherlands, Nieuwer-Ter-Aa
Website: www.shore-offshoresecurity.com

Shore & Offshore Security Group is a Dutch based company, specializing in maritime security and ensuring safe passing through high risk areas for clients vessels', cargo, and crew. Shore & Offshore Security Group provides training and drills for crews in how to deal with the  piracy threat, in addition to providing skilled armed and unarmed security teams to commercial shipping companies and luxury yachts. We also accommodate security to static  marine and land based objects as well.

395. Specops Company BV

Signed by: Mark Zuiderdujin, CEO
Date of becoming Signatory Company: 1 April 2012 (by letter)
Headquarters: The Netherlands, Pumerend
Website: www.specops-company.com

Providing high-risk global crisis and risk management services for nearly six years, Specops Company 3 core practices include Maritime, Air and Ground support. We set the industry standard for personalized and highly skilled assessment, planning and protection at every level throughout the enterprise, serving multinational corporations, small and mid-sized businesses, individuals, governmental agencies and nonprofit organizations. Our daily preoccupation is providing the most cost-effective, responsive and personalized possible customer care. We collaborate with business decision-makers at every level to ensure  seamless planning, communication and execution for optimal risk management. The best way to mitigate risk is to prevent it  – through best planning practices. But in today’s  challenging and rapidly changing global workplace, crisis responsiveness is also critical. Specops Company takes a holistic approach, providing companies the tools to know their  business, know their risks – and know the best means to securing corporate safety, integrity  and prosperity.

417. THE GROUP NLD U.A.

Signed by: Anton J. Melein, CEO - Owner
Date of becoming Signatory Company:  1 June 2011 (by letter)
Headquarters: Netherlands, Amsterdam
Website: www.thegroup-nld.com

Support of, advice on and provision of security-related training courses, for – among others – military and police units, the provision of specialized security services as well as distribution and sales of security and safety related materials, mainly for the department(s) of Justice and Defence. THE GROUP's major strength is the calibre and experience of its staff who are drawn mainly from elite Armed Forces and Police units. In particular, there is a strong historical association with the Dutch (Maritime) Special  Forces. Staff are trained and capable, supported wherever necessary by experts with specialist skills. The Group NLD has unrivalled experience in providing training and education services to governments, corporations, NGO's, military and law enforcement  personnel. The Group NLD offers consultancy and advice in any form on all the topics within the field of security & special operations. The Group NLD offers an exclusive variation of specialist services throughout the security branch. We provide state of the art detection means, highly trained  personnel, education & evaluation means and advise on all the topics within the field of security. All services and products are provided tailor made. We provide security for individuals, (multinational) companies, governments and NGOs, etc.

(Defensie weblog, 3 augustus 2012)

Omani support for anti-piracy operations hailed

By Conrad Prabhu

MUSCAT — Last month’s successful operation by Omani naval forces to liberate an Omani-flagged fishing dhow has been hailed by a high-ranking Dutch official as a classic example of how countries in the region can help support international anti-piracy efforts. Commodore Ben Bekkering of the Royal Netherlands Navy praised the “very successful co-operation” extended by the Sultanate in combating pirate attacks on least two occasions during the past month.

He cited in particular the June 30 incident in which Omani authorities agreed to prosecute seven suspected pirates arrested during the liberation of the Omani dhow, Al Boom. “That incident of three weeks ago has been proven to be a textbook operation from start to finish,” Commodore Bekkering said. “We see a forward-leaning proactive approach by the Omani (authorities) in fighting piracy. We all realise that if the pirates are successful, then maritime transport will be more difficult and our economies will suffer.

HNLMS Evertsen
Photo: Oman Observer 

"I think Oman, with its main ports like Salalah playing a pivotal role in transport, it is important that safety and security of maritime transportation is ensured. Therefore, I understand and appreciate very much the professional stance of the Omani navy,” he stated in comments to journalists on the bridge of the Dutch frigate HNLMS Evertsen, which is currently visiting Oman. As commander of Nato’s counter-piracy mission codenamed ‘Operation Ocean Shield’, Commodore Bekkering oversees a naval task force that includes the HNLMS Evertsen.

The frigate, which had also played a key role in the liberation of the Al Boom, arrived at Port Sultan Qaboos yesterday at the start of a four-day stopover for ‘rest and recreation’, as well as to take on fresh supplies. Detailing the “textbook” nature of the co-operation extended by Oman in the June 30 liberation of Al Boom, he said a swift response was possible due to crucial information provided by Oman’s maritime operations centre about the dhow.

“Based on bits of information that we were able to piece together, the Evertsen intercepted the dhow and liberated the crew of seven, and also seized seven suspected pirates on board. One of suspected pirates had died in an attack they had staged a couple of days before, so we had to give him a burial at sea in the proper tradition. "The Dutch government then negotiated with the Omani government on the prosecution of the suspected pirates. Within 2-3 days there was an agreement that since the dhow had been hijacked and since it was an Omani owned, the Sultanate decided to handle the prosecution.

"For us, it was not only great news to have liberated a dhow, but to also hand over the suspected pirates to a judge to decide (on their fate). This was the most perfect conclusion of a pirate incident. There have been occasions in the past where we had got hold of pirates but had to send them back to shore because there was no nation to accept them for prosecution,” Commodore Bekkering said.

More recently, an Omani naval vessel had also come to the rescue of another hijacked dhow that had been abandoned after it ran out of fuel. The vessel and its crew are now making their way through choppy waters en route to Salalah with assistance provided by Omani naval forces, he said.

(Oman Observer, 22 July 2012)

Ukraine to take a more active stand in anti-piracy operations

Ukraine will take a more active stand in maintaining peace and global security by participating in the international peacekeeping and, the secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine Andriy Kluyiev said, commenting on the intention of the Ukrainian militaries to join the Ocean Shield international operation against piracy, ForUm learned from the NSDCU press service.

According to him, the fight against sea piracy is an issue of high priority for Ukraine. Over the past 3.5 years more than four dozen ships with nearly two hundred of the Ukrainian citizens on board were captured by pirates, Kluyiev said.

He reminded that Ukraine has joined the EU anti-piracy naval operation "Atalanta" in November 2010. In addition, according to him, the Ukrainian Navy is a steady participant in the Mediterranean NATO operation "Active Endeavour" in the fight against illegal migration, illegal trafficking of weapons and drugs.

Already this year, the Ukrainian aircraft participated in the EU operation "Atalanta" carrying out for observation flights over the water area. In 2013, Hetman Sagaidachnyi frigate with a ship-based helicopter and a group of special forces on board is preparing to participate in the international operation "Ocean Shield" off the coast of Somalia, the secretary of NSDCU said.

In his opinion, Ukraine's participation in such operations is not only a contribution to global security, but also a good experience for the Ukrainian militaries.

(forUm, 18 July 2012)

Ukraine planning to join NATO Operation Ocean Shield



Ukraine is planning to join international anti-piracy efforts next year as part of Operation Ocean Shield
This was announced by First Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Vice Admiral Ihor Kabanenko at a briefing.

"The Hetman Sagaidachny frigate, with a helicopter and a group of commandos on board, is preparing to participate in this operation. This will be our direct contribution to patrolling the areas of possible actions by pirates as part of an international naval force," Kabanenko said.

He said that this step would significantly influence the level of protection of Ukrainian sailors and crew who work on international maritime trade routes.

(Radio Ukraine International, 17 July 2012)

Fighting symptoms or setting conditions?

Blog, Commodore Ben Bekkering, Royal Netherlands Navy

(Commodore Bekkering is currently in charge of  'Task Force 508', part of NATO's counter-piracy Operation Ocean Shield as well as commander of NATO'S Standing NATO Maritime Group 1)

Cdre Ben Bekkering

It seems quiet in the Indian Ocean. That is to say, on the pirate side of life. Naval presence in the Gulf of Aden and strong monsoon winds in the Arabian Sea seem to withhold pirates from hunting for merchant ships and crews they want to hold for ransom. 

The lack of “noise” can be misleading.

A few days ago I visited Admiral Yang, the commander of the Chinese Task Force 113. He was rightly proud. Since the end of 2008, Chinese task forces have escorted over 4500 ships in some 450 convoys with a 100% track record. His convoys, like those of Russia, Japan, India and Korea, continue. And not without a reason.

Along the coast of Somalia, seven ships with over 200 people are still held against their will. Most of them have been there for months, some even well over a year. Most of them are held in their own ship, others are held ashore, but always under horrible, often inhumane conditions.

Pirates are still active, holding people, negotiating for ransom, preparing for new attacks, sometimes fighting amongst themselves, adversely affecting local communities in their attempts to develop a normal livelihood, destabilising the region in the process.

This happens in a country that is struggling to get on its feet. With some hope coming out of the current UN-supported political process that should lead to a draft constitution and election of a parliament, a speaker and a president. A process that is difficult in itself, further complicated by the presence of terrorists, fundamentalist and organized crime. Where various organizations work on improvement of security, mostly in the south, but less so in the north, where most if not all of the pirates have settled.

That is why the task forces of NATO, EU and CMF continue to patrol the waters around the Horn of Africa. In open sea, but also along the coast. Observing the coast should provide early warning for pirates getting ready to go to sea. And consequently stop them before they can get anywhere close to becoming dangerous to shipping.

This is much more than fighting symptoms. Operating as we do enables us to stop the pirates early. If their business model starts to crumble pirates are caught, prosecuted, convicted and jailed, visible for the local population, the image of “high benefit and low risk”or even “Robin Hoods” is destroyed, deterring anyone who may entertain ideas to go into the piracy business.

If pirates no longer pose a threat to innocent fishermen and dhow-traders, the latter may return to sea in full strength, restarting a viable local and regional economy based on fish, dates and charcoal, amongst others. Such a local and regional economy is vital to create and sustain stability.

And by showing presence in the coastal waters, talking to the locals during visits of dhows and skiffs at sea, we can communicate the message of the international community. Perhaps giving hope to the local population. Helping them to choose for and stick to ways towards more stability and prosperity.

Four years ago I spent three months on an amphibious ship in the Gulf of Guinea. Our programme consisted of training maritime professionals, assisting in improving maritime infrastructure, promoting the relevance of the maritime domain and reaching out to communities. There are many parallels with the situation in the Horn of Africa that are worth investigating. With hurdles to take, but the potential for gains clearly there. It would create access, connecting regions with the global village, opening them for trade and other relations. As such, the maritime counter piracy effort is not fighting symptoms, but setting the proper and much needed conditions.

In the meantime, the task forces at sea will continue to ensure safe passage for shipping through the waters around the Horn of Africa. Making sure that the positive trend in successful disruptions and failing attacks on ships continue. At the moment helped by the strong monsoon in the Somali Basin and the Arabian Sea, but also later on, when the monsoon dies down and the pirates choose to use the calm weather as an opportunity. For us to be ready when they do so.

BLOG CTF 508/COMSNMG1, 15 July 2012

IMB Report: The Human Cost of Piracy

“In 2011, at least 3,863 seafarers were fired upon by Somali pirates armed with assault rifles and rocket propelled grenades. While the number of hostages has gone down over the past year, the violence faced by seafarers has remained high and attacks are often carried out with a determined ferocity – even against vessels protected by private security teams.”

Of that number, 968 seafarers faced armed pirates who managed to board their vessels. 413 of these seafarers were rescued from citadels (secured rooms) on their vessels by naval forces after waiting, terrified, for hours or even days while pirates tried to break into the citadels.

A total of at least 1,206 hostages were held captive by Somali pirates in 2011. These included 555 seafarers who were attacked and taken hostage during the year, 645 hostages captured in 2010 who remained in pirate hands during 2011, and 6 tourists and aid workers kidnapped on land. The average length of captivity has also increased by 50% over last year, up to an average length of over 8 months. Often these hostages face systematic and daily psychological and physical abuse and were even used as human shields:

“One day pirates drew us out to the open deck, told us to turn back and stand still facing the sea side. Then we heard how they reloaded their machine guns. We understood nothing. We saw US Navy not far out and we were standing and waiting for about two hours . . .” (Report of released seafarer)

35 hostages died during 2011: 8 were killed by pirates during an initial attack or after being taken captive; 8 died from disease or malnutrition while being held; and 19 died in crossfire while being used as human shields and during hostage rescue attempts.

The International Maritime Bureau (IMB) notes in the report the experiences of the seafarers from 23 of the 77 vessels hijacked in 2010 and 2011based on reports submitted by the Flag States of Liberia, the Marshall Islands, Panama and the Bahamas, various ship owners and operators, former hostages, and by the Maritime Piracy Humanitarian Response Programme.

“Various analyses of the Somali piracy problem have so far ignored a meaningful study into the human cost upon the seafarers and their families,” says Captain Pottengal Mukundan, Director of the IMB.

“This report aims to fill this gap and highlight some of the shocking consequences of this crime upon merchant seafarers, who are in the main, silent, involuntary victims. As other initiatives to counter piracy at sea off Somalia have become established, this important area of support to the victim seafarers and their families remains unaddressed. The challenge of any report of this kind is in getting the victims to recall their painful experiences and report them to help victims in the future.”

The report shows that all of the captive crews were subject to treatments in violation of basic human rights and psychological abuse. At least half experienced physical abuse. In addition to those reported to have died in captivity, it says that three of the hostages died following release because of the abuse they experienced at pirate hands.

According to Marcel Arsenault, Chairman of the One Earth Future Foundation and sponsor of the report, piracy is a systemic problem that proliferates from a failed state. “While the report rightfully focuses on violence faced by innocent seafarers, increased violence has also exacted a huge cost on Somali society. The desperate situation in Somalia continues to breed piracy. Piracy will ultimately be solved only by a new global initiative to create jobs and improve governance.”

(International Maritime Bureau, 22 June 2012)

Klik hier voor het volledige rapport (pdf, 30 pag.)

Counter-piracy: EU, NATO commanders meet at sea

On 16 June on board EUNAVFOR French flag ship Marne, Force Commander Rear Admiral Dupuis and his staff hosted the new Dutch Commander of Task Force 508 (NATO – operation Ocean Shield), commodore Ben Bekkering. The flagships, FS Marne and HNLMS frigate Evertsen, had rendezvous north of the Horn of Africa, protected from the effects of the monsoon which currently prevails in the Somali Basin.

Dupuis (l.), Bekkering 

Transferred with part of his staff by a Lynx helicopter, Commodore Ben Bekkering had extensive discussions with Rear Admiral Dupuis. This type of encounters at sea is particularly important to ensure the smooth flow of information and coordination needed in the area of operation. In this case, mutual understanding is made even easier as the new CTF 508 has also been recently the commanding officer of a Dutch ship operating in EUNAVFOR. If both forces act under different commands, their mission remains the same and some nations like the Netherlands also operate within the two forces.

Besides tactical coordination, the main topic of conversation was the evolution of piracy and its significant decrease over the past months. The two forces were able to exchange views and reflect on how best to promote a sustainable improvement of the situation, with the common goal to fight against piracy and restore order off the coasts of Somalia.

(EUNAVFOR, 21 June 2012)

EU Naval Forces rescues Iranian fishermen

On 11 May EU NAVFOR frigate HNLMS Van Amstel released a fishing dhow and her Iranian crew off the coast of Somalia. The dhow had been pirated 10 days earlier and was being used to carry out pirate attacks on merchant vessels.

Yesterday afternoon, during a surveillance flight 400 nautical miles off the Somali coast, the helicopter from Van Amstel identified the dhow towing two skiffs, with what looked like piracy-related equipment on board, such as ladders.

HNLMS Van Amstel quickly arrived at the dhow’s position and the boarding team was sent on board for investigation. After a few minutes, weapons were found and the boarding team was able to discriminate the 17 innocent Iranian crew members from 11 suspected pirates.

The fishing dhow had been pirated off the Omani coast, and is probably related to the unsuccessful attack against MV Super Lady on May 9, only two days before.

By this action, EU NAVFOR frigate Van Amstel has rendered inoperative a pirate group and its mothership. Above all the Dutch sailors freed the very relieved and happy Iranian crew, who expressed their gratitude and joy at being able to now go back home to their families.

(EUNAVFOR, 12 May 2012)

Piracy increasing in West Africa, decreasing off Somalia - report

One hundred and two incidents of piracy and armed robbery have been reported for the first quarter of 2012, with dangerously increasing numbers in West African waters, according to figures released today in the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) International Maritime Bureau’s (IMB) global piracy report.

In total, 11 vessels were reported hijacked worldwide, with 212 crew members taken hostage and four crew killed. A further 45 vessels were boarded, with 32 attempted attacks and 14 vessels fired upon – the latter all attributed to either Somali or Nigerian pirates.

Nigerian pirates widening range
Ten reports were received from Nigeria in the beginning of 2012, equalling the same number reported in Nigeria for the whole of last year. A further attack in neighbouring Benin has also been attributed to Nigerian pirates. The reports include the hijackings of one product and one chemical tanker, between which 42 crewmembers were taken hostage.

“Nigerian piracy is increasing in incidence and extending in range,” said Pottengal Mukundan, Director of the IMB Piracy Reporting Centre, which has been monitoring piracy worldwide since 1991. “At least six of the 11 reported incidents in Nigeria occurred at distances greater than 70 nautical miles from the coast, which suggests that fishing vessels are being used as motherships to attack shipping further afield.”

Two crew members were killed when armed pirates boarded their bulk carrier 110 nautical miles off Lagos, Nigeria.

Attacks in Nigerian coastal waters have further resulted in at least three crew kidnapped from their anchored vessel.

“While the number of reported incidents in Nigeria is still less than Somalia, and hijacked vessels are under control of the pirates for days rather than months, the level of violence against crew is dangerously high,” added Mr Mukundan.

Threat still high off Somalia despite fewer incidents
Somalia continues to dominate figures with 43 attacks, including the hijacking of nine vessels and the taking hostage of 144 crew. Four dhows and a fishing vessel, softer targets that make for ideal motherships, were among the highjacked vessels. Somali pirates were also responsible for the hijacking of a Panamax bulk carrier at the end of March.

But while the number of 2012 incidents and hijackings are less than reports for the same period in 2011 (97 incidents, 16 hijackings), it is unlikely that the threat of Somali piracy will diminish in the short to medium term unless further actions are taken.

The report attributes the reduction in overall attacks to the disruptive actions and pre-emptive strikes by the navies in the region, which disrupted numerous pirate action groups, emphasizing the importance of the navies in both deterring and combating Somali piracy.

The application of Best Management Practices and the increasing use of privately contracted armed security personnel (PCASP) also contributed to the decrease in the hijackings. In the incidents reported to the Piracy Reporting Centre, more vessels with PCASP have been reported in the first quarter than those not armed.

Until a comprehensive legal framework is in place, however, owners and Masters should follow the International Maritime Organization and industry guidelines on the carriage of PCASP.

“The EU announcement to expand their anti-piracy mission to target pirates ashore is another welcome move that could further threaten the Somali piracy model,” Mr Mukundan said.

As of 31 March 2012, suspected Somali pirates still held 15 vessels with 253 crew
members as hostages, with an additional 49 crew members being held hostage on land.

Increased attacks in Indonesia
Elsewhere, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of armed robbery attacks in the Indonesian archipelago, up from five in the first quarter of 2011 to 18 in 2012.

The report shows that all types of vessels in Indonesia have been targeted and that the attacks aimed at theft from those vessels. Fifteen vessels were boarded – 13 while anchored, one while berthed and one underway. Five crew members were taken hostage overall.

IMB offers the latest piracy reports free of charge. To request a PDF version of the report by email, please visit: http://www.icc-ccs.org/requestreport

Latest attacks may also be viewed on the IMB Live Piracy Map at: http://www.icc-ccs.org/livepiracymap

(Source: International Maritime Bureau, 23 April 2012)

EU Operations Centre to support CSDP missions in the Horn of Africa

The Council today activated the EU Operations Centre in support of the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) missions in the Horn of Africa. This is the first activation of the EU Operations Centre.

The Operations Centre will coordinate and increase synergies between the three CSDP actions in the Horn of Africa. The EU is currently conducting two military operations – EUNAVFOR Atalanta, which fights piracy off the Somali coast, and EUTM Somalia, which contributes to the training of Somali security forces. It has also started operational planning for a civilian mission to strengthen maritime capacities in the region (RMCB).

The Operations Centre will provide direct support to the operations commander for the planning and conduct of the RMCB mission and facilitate coordination between EUTM and Operation Atalanta and their interaction with Brussels-based structures. If requested, it will also support strategic planning for CSDP missions and operations in the Horn of Africa.

The Operations Centre will not have command responsibility, but will fully respect the existing chains of command. It will include some EU military staff, the Brussels-based support cell for the EU training mission in Somalia, the liaison team of Operation Atalanta in Brussels as well as staff seconded by member states.

The head of the EU Operations Centre will be Captain Ad van der Linde (Netherlands).The Operations Centre, which was created in 2003, will be active for an initial duration of two years. Its activities and financing will be regularly reviewed.

(bron: Raad van de Europese Unie, 23 maart 2012)