A maritime security firm is warning ships and crew operating in the Gulf of Oman to be vigilant after its security teams, last week, prevented a suspected pirate attack on a merchant vessel.
Maritime Asset Security and Training (MAST) Ltd is advising vessels transiting through the region to maintain a high state of alert, and seek specialist maritime security advice to ensure they have appropriate preventative measures in place to guard against pirate boarding, by following Best Management Practice (BMP4). The incident last week involved a merchant vessel transiting through the Gulf of Oman, which was approached and followed by two fast moving, armed skiffs that appeared to be supported by a dhow ‘mother ship’. Action by the on–board MAST security team prevented the merchant vessel from being boarded.
This latest incident follows suspicious activity that was identified by MAST in the region in September 2013.
Phillip Cable, CEO of MAST said: “Piracy on the Gulf of Oman continues to pose a threat and it is crucial that crews maintain a high state of alert to prevent boardings. With effective monitoring, security procedures and systems in place it is possible to identify and neutralise imminent threats, and safeguard against potential issues in high-risk areas. The training MAST provides its operatives plays a critical role in helping prevent piracy attacks and other criminal interference with ships but, despite actions from governments, piracy remains a real threat and crews cannot afford to be complacent.”
About MAST
MAST reports that it is one of the first Private Maritime Security Companies (PMSCs) to attain ISO PAS 28007 accreditation, demonstrating compliance with legal requirements for providing maritime security services in high-risk areas, such as the Gulf of Oman. It is also ISO 28000:2007 accredited, the international standard for the security management systems in the supply chain and across global shipping. For further information visit: http://www.mast-commercial.com/
