DFAT warns seafarers of worldwide pirate risk

10:44 AM Thu 4 Dec 2008 GMT

'Somali pirates' .

The Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade has warned sea-faring holiday-makers and boaties to be alert to the risk of pirate attacks, following a recent rise in attacks on vessels at sea.

Officials have issued a special advisory to travellers taking to the high seas to be aware of the risk of piracy in many parts of the world.

While reports a cruise liner with 400 Australians aboard was attacked by Somali pirates were denied by the cruise line company, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) warned there was a worldwide risk of attacks on the high seas.

'There is a worldwide risk of attacks on vessels at sea and in port by terrorists and pirates,' DFAT said in an advisory issued on its smarttraveller website.

'There are high levels of piracy in coastal areas of many countries around the world. Kidnapping for ransom can also occur.'

DFAT warns that attacks by pirates in Somali waters and the Gulf of Aden are increasing in frequency.

'All forms of shipping are attractive targets for Somali pirates, including commercial vessels, pleasure craft and luxury cruise liners,' it said.

'We strongly advise Australians to maintain a high level of vigilance and to exercise extreme caution when anywhere near these waters.'

According to the department, seven ships have been hijacked off the coast of Somalia over the past month. At least 14 ships - with more than 260 crew members - are being held hostage by pirates.

'The International Maritime Bureau notes that 92 ships have been attacked and 36 ships hijacked this year near Somalia and Yemen,' DFAT said.

Modern pirates in attack mode - .. .

Areas where there are high levels of piracy include:

- Coastal areas of Somalia, including the Gulf of Aden and Yemen

- West Africa, particularly Nigeria

- Parts of South East Asia, especially the Malacca Straits and Singapore Straits

- East Africa, particularly Tanzania and Kenya

- The Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea

- South America, particularly Peru and Brazil

More at www.dfat.gov.au

by Jeni Bone