The International Maritime Bureau reports: Piracy in the Gulf of Guinea off West Africa jumped by more than 50% last year, as the area off oil-rich Nigeria continues to be the world’s most dangerous for ship crews. The Gulf of Guinea represents a “serious and immediate threat to the safety and security of crews and vessels operating in the region,” the report said.

Castor Vali has been operational in the area and recently safely demobilised three clients out of Benin Waters after offshore geophysical and geotechnical operations. The Gulf of Guinea region accounted for more than 90% of global crew member kidnappings last year. The number of crew kidnapped off West Africa in 2019 was 121 compared to 78 in 2018.

For further information and offshore support please contact info@castorvali.com or visit Maritime Security Services.