The effect of thieves on International LtL Carrier Shipping has come to the forefront of world news as thieve based in Somalia have seized vessels in recent months. The problem has grown into huge proportions that are affecting the bottom line of shipping business and manufacturers around the world.
The effect of thieves on merchandise transportation companies has been devastating, not only millions of dollars in money but expensive delays. Disrupted shipments have created a new problem in delivery dates as most prisoners and freight have remained under Somali control for a few weeks or two at a time before being released. The logistics company has the responsibility of organizing the transportation of merchandise and is forced to appease shipment buyers as the cargo stays in Somali ports undelivered.
International incidents have become more common as governments have chosen to respond with an dangerous naval response. The naval ships first patrolled international waters but have now moved into Somali sovereign waters with the governments permission. The naval presence has slowed the thieves but the problem remains.
Where ransoms are being made, sophisticated weaponry is available. Pirates are carrying with weapons, typically a real danger to unarmed or lightly dangerous crews on the targeted vessels. Speedboats are the boats of choice and freighters stand little chance of outrunning them.
Nations as different as South Korea, Japan, India, Russia and the United States have sent their militaries to accompany their vessels through the area. As firepower has arrived, inevitable altercations between attacking thieves and the opposing navies have led to the demise of thieves and innocent noncombatants. An Indian boat even fired on another ship that was erroneously believed to be occupied by thieves, but didn`t.
The psychological impact on civilian sailors has led to near panic when suspected thieves have approached. Captured crews have been treated well so far but there is no assurance that this will continue.