Maritime piracy affects major shipping lanes including the Gulf of Aden, Somali Basin, and the Indian Ocean, which affects the safety of the ocean vessels crossing these waters and the crews aboard the ships. According to Interpol, millions of dollars in ransom payments are paid to pirates. Usually, the ransom money is split between the pirates, their leaders, and those who finance them. As many as 43 military vessels from the European Union, NATO, and other interested parties patrol the dangerous waters in an effort to protect against maritime piracy.
Some ships choose to re-route around the Cape of Good Hope – a safer yet more expensive and longer journey. Going around the tip of Africa instead of transiting through the Gulf of Aden and the Suez Canal can extend a vessel’s journey by up to two weeks or more. Longer journeys for the vessels also means less voyages annually and reduces its yearly delivery capacity.
For more information:
Interpol: Maritime Piracy
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