Liberian Maritime Security Alert: Recent Attacks and New Measures

Eda Zenic -

On August 6, 2024, the Liberia Maritime Authority released two critical security bulletins addressing recent maritime attacks.

  1. Ballistic Missile Attack: On August 3, 2024, a Liberian-flagged container ship was hit by a ballistic missile while traveling through the Gulf of Aden. The missile struck the cargo hold approximately 5 meters above the waterline, causing a fire in the cargo hold, which has been brought under control. Fortunately, there were no injuries among the crew, and there was no pollution.
  2. USV Attack: On July 15, 2024, a Liberian-flagged tanker in the Red Sea was attacked by an unmanned surface vehicle (USV). The USV exploded near the port side of the ship, causing significant damage. The crew was unharmed, and there was no pollution reported. The tanker was able to move to safer waters afterward.

Security Recommendations

  • Increase Security Level: For vessels in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and Arabian Sea, increase the security level to Level 3. Implement all protective measures outlined in your Ship Security Plan to address the heightened risk.
  • Avoid Yemeni Ports: Due to recent attacks, it is recommended that Liberian-flagged vessels avoid calling at ports in Yemen. The decision to transit these areas should be carefully evaluated by the shipping company considering the increased threat.
  • Transit Decisions: Companies should assess risks and decide on transit routes based on current threat levels. Increased vigilance and adherence to security protocols are necessary.

Recommendations for Maritime Operations

  • Reporting and Registration:
    • Report to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) and register with the Maritime Security Centre for the Horn of Africa (MSCHOA) before entering high-risk areas.
    • Follow Best Management Practices 5 (BMP5) for threat and risk assessments to ensure safe navigation in high-risk areas.
  • Security Levels:
    • Within Territorial Waters: Follow the security level set by port authorities but consider additional security measures based on local conditions.
    • Outside Territorial Waters: Maintain Security Level II for operations outside territorial seas or ports within the defined High-Risk Area (HRA).
  • Private Maritime Security Companies (PMSC): Consider using a Private Maritime Security Company for additional armed or unarmed security personnel. This can provide extra protection while transiting high-risk areas.

Emergency Contacts

  • NAVCENT Battle Watch: Phone: +973-1785-3879
  • NCAGS (Naval Cooperation and Guidance for Shipping):
  • MSCHOA (Maritime Security Centre – Horn of Africa):
  • UKMTO (United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations):

Contact for Security Incidents

  • Liberian Maritime Authority’s Security Department:

If any incidents occur or if there are changes in security levels, shipowners, operators, and masters should inform the Liberian Maritime Authority to ensure appropriate responses and updates.