Strategic Insights
Organized crime is a persistent threat to business con tinuity in numerous ports around the world. In the first article in this issue, counterter rorism efforts under the ISPS Code and whether the tools in the Code have been effective against organized crime are examined.
Despite fears of collusion, organized criminal groups rely on the regular functioning of maritime commerce to hide their illegal activities. To date, though, the focus on terrorism has prevented a holistic approach to port security that effectively targets organized crime.
Drug smuggling is one such component of organized crime.
The second article in this issue looks at the evo lution of drug smuggling in the Caribbean and South American regions. Recently, there has been a new focus on routes through Central America to the US, as well as the use of semi-submersible craft.
The West African region is currently at the forefront of maritime security concerns and two reports by Risk Intel ligence analysts consider recent developments of interest.
Firstly, last year saw an upswing in attacks in the Bight of Benin against tanker vessels in particular, forcing Benin and Togo to take more of an interest in their mari time security. Despite their efforts, interest from compa nies in the area in private security is growing.
Secondly, the situation in Senegal and its impact on maritime security is examined.
The final article in this issue returns to port security and considers the threat of cargo theft in Europe. The report from Risk Intelligence analysts examines the current and anticipated state of this challenge.
See: Strategic Insights
