Piracy, armed robbery and border security scenarios are being played out in a table top exercise for officials in Conakry, Guinea (6-8 December). The IMO-led event is the latest in a long series of exercises held in the West Africa region to promote security measures in IMO treaties, particularly the SOLAS chapter XI-2 and ISPS Code. Further scenarios include threats to cruise ships, incidents potentially involving weapons of mass destruction, drugs, environmental threats such as oil spills, and maritime safety inspections.
The exercise is also covering the region’s maritime security Code of Conduct, which was signed by governments, including Guinea, in 2013, to enhance cooperation to counter piracy and armed robbery at sea and other illicit maritime activity. IMO is thereby continuing its efforts to promote a multi-agency, whole of Government approach to maritime security and maritime law enforcement issues.
The event is hosted by the Direction Nationale de la Marine Marchande in Guinea. IMO is represented by a maritime security consultant.