Panama updates MMC-230 on anti-piracy measures

The Panama Maritime Authority has revised Merchant Marine Circular MMC-230 to enhance ship protection measures against pirate attacks.

The document outlines comprehensive maritime security guidelines and best practices for vessels operating in high-risk areas, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures to mitigate risks associated with piracy.

Best Management Practices (BMP):

All parties must review and implement BMP before entering high-risk areas, which include training, enhanced vigilance, effective use of monitoring equipment, maneuvering practice, and establishing alarm systems.
The use of deck lighting, securing tools and equipment, controlling access to critical areas, and designating safe muster points are essential.
Vessel movements must be communicated to relevant organizations, including MSCHOA, before, during, and after transiting high-risk areas.

Crew Familiarization and Communication:

Shipowners and operators must ensure crew familiarity with BMP recommendations and maintain communication with crew relatives regarding transits in high-risk areas.

Private Maritime Security Companies (PMSC):

PMSCs must comply with BMP and coordinate exercises with the crew before entering high-risk areas.

Statistical Support for BMP:

Following BMP and routing advisories has shown to significantly reduce piracy incidents and assist naval forces in protecting vessels.

Security Measures:

The Panama Maritime Authority discourages the carrying and use of firearms on Panamanian flagged vessels. Ships must raise their security levels according to their Ship Security Plan (SSP) and ensure their SSAS equipment is functional.
Panamanian flagged vessels must comply with security regulations in the Gulf of Guinea and avoid venturing within 300 NM from the coast, unless safely transiting for cargo operations.

Specific Regional Guidelines:

In Nigerian waters, only naval guards are permitted onboard; armed guards from PMSCs are not allowed. The Nigerian Navy has agreements with PMSCs for armed escort vessels under their command.
For the Southern Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb, ships are advised to register with MSCHOA and UKMTO.

Reporting and Emergency Contacts:

A list of contact numbers and emails for various maritime security organizations is provided to facilitate reporting incidents and maintaining communication.

Modification (October 2024):

As of October 2024, the updated paragraph 1.10 highlights that from January to September 2024, three locations—Somali waters, Indonesian archipelagic waters, and Bangladesh—accounted for 86% of the total 79 reported incidents. The Panama Maritime Authority encourages all shipowners, operators, and masters to implement appropriate maritime security measures to reduce and minimize associated risks.