Those who work and travel on ocean-going vessels may be surprised to discover that criminal activity is a serious problem at sea, just as it is on land. While many maritime crimes are brought to justice, others go unseen or unreported.
As you take to the sea for work or play, maritime piracy lawyers want you to be aware of the types of maritime crime and piracy you may encounter. Here are 4 categories of crime to be watching for when you sail the high seas.
Piracy, Hijacking, and Kidnapping
Modern pirates typically commit robbery by boarding ships through force, stealing vessels, or holding cargo and crews for ransom. While piracy had been declining, in 2008-2009 it became a serious issue off the coast of Somalia,1 threatening international trade and causing millions of dollars in financial loss along with tragic loss of life.
Smuggling: Transporting Illegal Cargo
Ships often carry items that criminals want to keep “under the radar.” Illegal cargo includes:
- Exotic plants or endangered animals transported without proper permission and paperwork
- Weapons, artillery, ammunition, and explosives that are shipped without documentation
- Drugs that are smuggled through ports, or which may be picked up or dropped off at sea to avoid customs inspections
- Humans who are stowaways seeking to immigrate illegally or captives being transported against their will
Illegal Fishing or Harvesting
Certain areas are protected fisheries or national waters where whaling, lobster trapping, and fishing are limited or prohibited. Fishing or harvesting resources in forbidden waters or without a permit is a serious maritime crime.
Illegal Ocean Dumping
Ocean-going vessels that dump sewage, garbage, oil, or toxic chemicals at sea are violating strict national and international guidelines that forbid dumping at sea due to the devastating effects of this pollution on sea life, fisheries, and human health.
Stopping Marine Crime and Piracy
As a maritime worker or passenger, you should report crimes you witness to the proper authorities as soon as possible. Crime at sea is dangerous not only through direct dangers like piracy, but also by transporting dangerous weapons, explosives, chemicals, or animals without proper safeguards.
If you have been targeted for reporting maritime crime or injured at sea due to dangerous or illegal cargo, contact an experienced team of maritime lawyers. Nationwide, you can call or contact us for a free and confidential consultation and take action to protect your rights.
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