NATO Shipping Centre Issue Warning of Somalia-Based Maritime Piracy in Preparation

During the past week there have been indications of pirate activity ashore. (NFI) This activity could be in anticipation of the inter monsoon season which will bring more favourable conditions for small boats, skiffs and fishing throughout the Somali Basin. Furthermore, such activity is a reminder that the pirates retain a capability and intent to conduct acts of piracy. In the near term the forecast for small boat / skiff operations is unfavourable along the East Coast of Somalia extending from the tip of the Horn of Africa down through the Somali Basin. By late September there should be indications of the transition to the inter-monsoon season, which will provide more favourable conditions for small boats and fishing activities in the Somali Basin / West Coast of Somalia. These conditions will last until the North East Monsoon begins, historically around Mid-November. Small boat activity may be observed earlier than this in the more prominent fishing areas and Coastal waters depending on the local conditions. Source - NSC