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Amid the recent surge in pirate activity across the Western Indian Ocean since late October, a possible Pirate Action Group (PAG) incident was reported approximately 565 nautical miles east of Dar es Salaam.

A northbound sailing merchant vessel reported a possible pirate action group (PAG) dhow towing a skiff approximately 565 nm east of Dar es Salaam. No hostile acts were observed, and the vessel proceeded safely to its next port. All traffic in the wider area is advised to exercise heightened caution.

Key points:

  • Position/time: Lat:06°46’S, long:049°15’E at 07:30 UTC, approximately 565 nm east of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, far offshore within a known Somali Basin long-range corridor.
  • Reporting ship: Large ocean-going merchant vessel.
  • Behavior: Dhow assessed loitering while towing a skiff, no weapons displayed, no approach or pursuit, reporting ship-maintained course and speed.
  • Risk context: Area associated with organized PAG activity employing mother-craft dhows and skiff operations across the western Indian Ocean.
  • Immediate actions: Reporting ship activated BMP MS 2025 measures, traffic in vicinity advised to increase separation, maintain vigilance, and report promptly.

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With the global sulphur content of bunker fuel under MARPOL Annex VI capped at 0.50% m/m, it is important for ships to understand the different types of bunker fuel sampling and how they relate to compliance verification. This article outlines the distinctions between MARPOL-defined sampling methods and independent sampling carried out by shipowners and their contractual counterparties. It offers practical steps that can be taken when independent test results suggest non-compliance with the sulphur regulations.

Full advisory at the following link.

https://britanniapandi.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Bunker-Sampling-and-the-Sulphur-Cap-Guidance.pdf

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Below you will find a weekly report dated 12 November 2025, covering the period of 6 to 12 November 2025, where the following incidents were reported:

  • 1 maritime security incident in West Africa in the last 7 days
  • 3 maritime security incidents in the Indian Ocean/Middle East in the last 7 days. 

Full advisory at the following link.

https://britanniapandi.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/ARC-Weekly-Report-12.11.25.pdf

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The tragic and escalating frequency of catastrophic fires on vessels carrying lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries—whether in electric vehicles (EVs) or as standalone cargo—has forced the global maritime industry into a state of urgent crisis. This pivotal publication from the Maritime Professional Council of the UK directly addresses this lethal threat, moving beyond general warnings to provide a deep, essential dive into the mechanics of thermal runaway, the profound difficulties in current firefighting methods, and the "eye-watering" financial devastation resulting from these incidents. Since the widespread adoption of Li-ion technology in the marine sector is inevitable, the industry can no longer afford to delay; this guidance serves as a critical call to action for regulators, insurers, and vessel operators to immediately adopt new, robust protocols for cargo handling, fire mitigation, and crew training to prevent further loss of life and property at sea.