With the Indian Ocean monsoon season ending, Somali piracy activity is expected to rise.1)
The resurgence stems from political turmoil in Puntland, Somalia’s semi-autonomous region, where disenfranchised sub-clans initially targeted Iranian fishing vessels. These groups have since evolved their tactics, transforming captured dhows into “motherships” for launching sophisticated attacks on larger merchant vessels, according to Ambrey.2)
The threat has expanded dramatically, with pirates now capable of launching attacks up to 800 nautical miles from Somalia’s coastline.3)
“Due to the size of the Indian Ocean, merchant vessels cannot solely rely on military intervention,” Ambrey’s threat assessement states, highlighting that naval assets may be hours away from distressed vessels.4)
As the post-monsoon season brings calmer seas, the maritime industry should brace for increased pirate activity. The industry is urged to reassess its security protocols, with recommendations including comprehensive ship security assessments, voyage-specific risk evaluations, and the strategic deployment of armed security teams.5)