The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations naval authority (UKMTO) warned on Monday that ships diverting around Africa would mean that more traffic would be passing through high-risk areas where pirate gangs operate.
“Whilst the threat of Somalia-based piracy is currently suppressed through a combination of military operations, application of BMP 5 (ship protection measures) and the presence of armed guards, an increase in maritime traffic through the area may present opportunities for Somali pirate groups to attack shipping,” UKMTO said.