MSR Weekly Newsletter, February 16th

Dear Readers,

Another week with several piracy reports off Nigeria, which have prompted more soul-searching from the agencies charged with protecting its waters. NIMASA had (for reasons nobody seems to understand) promised to end piracy by June this year. A target that looks rather far-fetched to anyone versed in maritime security in the region. Despite having access to significant physical assets, the Navy, Marine Police and NIMASA continue to have issues suppressing maritime crime. 
There are questions, too, over Nigerian port security. In the wake of a positive visit by the US Coast Guard to oversee ISPS Code compliance, Rivers Port has been in the spotlight over its security. 
In the Asia-Pacific/IOR, ASEAN nations are mooting the idea of an ASEAN Coast Guard. But does the region need this or just better lines of communication? 
On the subject of better communication, Indonesian authorities intercepted a drug smuggling operation which was heading to Australia with one tonne of crystal meth on board. The vessel was a 'phantom ship', which are becoming an issue for law enforcement in the region. 
In the IOR, there are concerns over the increasing military presence in the Red Sea. But if everyone played nice, they wouldn't be needed…
We end with news that tempers are beginning to flare in the Mediterranean, as various regional states begin to look at the possible hydrocarbon reserves in their TTWs. It's not like oil ever caused any problems…

Regards,
David Rider                  
Editor