Marine Security Advisory - 05/2007 - Raising To Security Level II - For Vessels Operating In The Coastal Waters Or In Ports In Nigeria

December 17, 2007

MARITIME SECURITYADVISORY – 05/2007

SUBJECT: RAISING TO SECURITY LEVEL II - FOR VESSELS OPERATING IN THE COASTAL WATERS OR IN PORTS IN NIGERIA

Dear Owners/Operators/Masters:

Effective immediately, the Administration has set a MANDATORY SECURITY LEVEL II for all Liberian flagged vessels when calling on ports, and operating in the coastal waters of NIGERIA.

The raising of the Security Level is due to the increase in the number of stowaway and piracy activities in the region.

Masters are advised to remain vigilant and question the intentions of all craft approaching their vessels. It has been reported that pirates dressed in military fatigues and using military launches are apparently boarding vessels and taking hostages. The hostages are later released in exchange for cash, cigarettes, cargo and other merchandise.

The increase to Security Level II will remain in effect until further notice.

Ships arriving in the affected area are required to report setting of SECURITY LEVEL II to the Administration via email to security@LISCR.com.

The Administration recommends the following measures considered when operating in Nigeria:

• Emphasize extra security measures by adding more security personnel and roving watches as necessary.
• Refresh the crew regarding all the anti piracy measures as recommended by the ship security plan.
• Brief the crew regarding special security measures taken, before arrival to this region.
• Employ as much lighting as possible when at port or at anchorage; and necessary lighting that does not impede the safe conduct of navigation when underway.
• Rig all the available equipment necessary to deter pirates from coming on board such as charging fire hoses.
• Masters are encouraged, when possible, to avoid dropping anchor and to drift and stand by to increase speed and leave the area if need be.
• Keep a constant radar watch and closely monitor all targets.
• Navigate as far as possible from the coastlines of threat areas.
• Complete a Declaration of Security and implement highest security measures necessary.
• Master’s are advised to keep in close coordination with the CSO, Authorities, and Administration.
• Ensure that ship’s crew understands their part in all anti piracy measures, and have all the necessary security training required.

For more information please contact the Security Department at telephone + 1 703 251 2435 email security@liscr.com; LISCR Duty Officer + 1 703 963 6216 email: dutyofficer@liscr.com;