Loss Prevention Advice
LIBERIA UPDATES ON THE SECURITY SITUATION IN THE RED SEA AND GULF OF ADEN (COURTESY OF SAFETY 4 SEA)
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The Republic of Liberia has issued a Marine Security Advisory to inform of the imminent threat of attacks by armed skiffs, drones or anti-ship missiles in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and Arabian Sea.
Over the last few months, there have been threats and attacks on multiple vessels engaged in innocent passage through the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. On multiple occasions missiles from drones have been launched and ships have been demanded to turn around and proceed to Yemen. According to Skuld Club, recent data show Bab el Mandeb transits have climbed to their highest level in almost two years, signalling a cautious recovery in the Red
Threats to vessels include anti-ship missiles, anti-ship ballistic missiles, water-borne improvised explosive devices, and drones. Mines have been deployed near the coast of Yemen, and on rare occasions mines have detached from their tether and have drifted into traffic lanes. There have also been reports of unmanned undersea vehicles, though no vessel has been attacked by these devices.
The greatest threat is in the vicinity of the Yemeni, Red Sea coastline. However, there have been attacks as far as 100 nautical miles from the coast. All owners, operators, and crews should remain cognizant of the threats in the area and understand the risk of transiting this area.
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In Turkish waters, environmental protection is developing, and significant fines are applicable to vessels that violate Turkish anti-pollution regulations. As per the latest amendments to be brought into effect on 01st January 2026, there is an increase 25.49 %) in the amount of the fines that are being applied by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) against the offending vessels compared to the previous year.
In the event of a sea pollution, fines are being issued by the following authorities in Turkiye:
POLLUTION FINE ISSUED BY THE TURKISH EPA
The administrative fines will be imposed in accordance with the Turkish Environmental Code dated 1983, numbered 2872.
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The risks associated with the carriage of plastic pellets in containers and provides practical measures to prevent spillage and protect the marine environment.
Understanding the risks of plastic pellets
In recent years, several high-profile incidents have occurred, such as the Trans Carrier in 2020 and the XPress Pearl in 2021, where containers have fallen overboard from container ships and resulted in the release of plastic pellets into seas and oceans with subsequent harm to the marine environment.
While the carriage of plastic pellets in shipping containers is a secure means of shipment, the environmental concern arises when these containers are lost overboard. Once plastic pellets are released, their physical properties of being small and light allow them to travel extensive distances from the initial release location.
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A key information relating to stowaway incidents and loss prevention measures, highlighting the ongoing risks at West African ports and the importance of proactive strategies to protect vessels and crew.
Case studies
As explained, during the 2025 P&I year, the number and geographic distribution of stowaway cases handled by China P&I Club indicate that stowaway incidents remain frequent in Africa, especially at West African ports. The Club has provided three case studies of incidents occurring throughout the year. These are:
Case #1
In February 2025, member vessel A departed from Lagos, Nigeria, bound for Kribi, Cameroon. Before leaving Lagos, the captain reported conducting two stowaway prevention inspections and confirmed safety.
However, several days later, after anchoring at Kribi, a stowaway was discovered at the deck ladder by a duty sailor.
The stowaway stated that he had gone to the vessel’s crane control room after boarding and hid in a corner there.
After discovery, the crew properly accommodated him in a cabin, and with the assistance of the local shipping agent, he was repatriated from Kribi.