EU Naval Force Operation Commander warned a room full of shipping executives that while Somali piracy in the Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden is down, there is no room for complacency regarding the on-going threat.
An EUNAVFOR warship escorts a merchant vessel in the Gulf of Aden. Photo: EUNAVFOR
Major General Martin Smith MBE gave the warning at a meeting Wednesday with senior shipping industry representatives, part of the London International Shipping Week. During his speech, Major General Smith welcomed the significant reduction in Somali-based piracy since 2012, stating that the reduction can be attributed to a collective effort by shipping companies and international naval forces in the region, including the European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR).