Modern Day Pirate Attacks

Maritime Piracy Lawyer

Maritime piracy is a centuries-old practice that has been occurring since maritime trade began. Piracy may be generally defined as an act of robbery or other crime of violence at sea. It is typically committed by passengers or crew from one ship against another, and the goal is typically financial or other personal gain. The earliest recorded incidents involving piracy involve documentation related to the Sea Peoples who operated in the Aegean and Mediterranean in the 13th Century B.C.

Throughout the centuries, acts of piracy and the individuals who commit these crimes have become more organized. Modern day piracy is significantly more sophisticated, involving semi-automatic weapons and clandestine operations that offer the pirates a greater chance at success against vessels that are prepared for pirate attacks. Pirates have been known to use RPGs (rocket-propelled grenades) and AK-47s (assault rifles) as well as other highly dangerous weapons to overtake a ship.

Today, maritime piracy is a primary issue of concern for governments and maritime commerce companies worldwide. Through maritime law, naval operations and international law, countries throughout the world are fighting a war on piracy. Self-protection is also important, as vessels can take specific measures to counter a pirate attack or avoid pirates in the first place.

Piracy Statistics

In spite of efforts being made by governments and individual corporations, piracy continues to occur today. According to statistics presented by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Commercial Crime Services:

• 397 pirate attacks were reported to the ICC from the beginning of the year through November 14, 2011.
• 223 of these reported attacked occurred off the coast of Somalia.
• 39 hijackings were reported in this same time period, with 26 reported for Somalia.
• A total of 450 hostages were taken and 15 were killed in Somalia pirate attacks alone.

Maritime Attorney for Pirate Attacks

As a maritime worker, you may be in serious danger if the vessel you are working on is overcome or attacked by pirates. If you were on a vessel that was subjected to piracy or lost a loved one in a pirate attack, a maritime attorney at Arnold & Itkin can talk to you about your legal rights and options in seeking financial compensation for the injuries or loss you have experienced.

You may be able to seek compensation under the Jones Act or other maritime law, but these matters may be complex due to the fact that most acts of piracy occur in foreign waters. With our experience and track record of success in this field, our maritime lawyers can provide you with the level of legal representation you need.

Contact a maritime piracy lawyer at our firm today.