So far in 2024, the IMB PRC has not reported any occurrences of piracy or armed robbery at Callao, Peru. However, the threat of theft and armed robbery in this port is still significant, and it is not unusual for perpetrators to employ violence against the crew.
Maintain vigilance at Peru’s Callao Anchorage
Published 21 May 2024
On 29 September 2023, a vessel was boarded by thieves whilst at anchor in Callao, Peru. The perpetrators tied up the duty crew and shore watchmen on routine rounds and held them at knifepoint, before escaping with the ship’s stores, according to the International Maritime Bureau Piracy Reporting Center (IMB PRC). And this was not the only incident in this port in 2023 with violence towards crew.
A total of 14 incidents involving vessels at Callao Anchorage was recorded by the IMB PRC in in 2023, with seven crew members taken hostage and one each assaulted and threatened. In 2022, five crew members were taken hostage and one assaulted in some 12 incidents. The majority of incidents in this port have occurred during the hours of darkness when the vessel was anchored. While bulk carriers appear to be the most frequent targets, tankers, container vessels, general cargo vessels, and vehicle carriers have also been attacked during port calls in Peru.
Even if the IMB PRC has not reported any occurrences of piracy or armed robbery at Callao Anchorage, Peru during the first months of 2024, and its incident records showed a welcome decline in 2022, last year’s worrying trend serves as a reminder to ship’s crew to keep a careful watch and anti-piracy measures in place while in this port.
Preventive measures
When alongside at port or anchorage, or during STS/bunkering operations, equipment such as fenders, anchor chains, and hawse pipes should be physically blocked as they can provide a point of access for perpetrators. Regular security rounds should be conducted, and particular attention paid to suspicious small boats passing close to the ship or loitering in the vicinity. Since the perpetrators often board ships during the hours of darkness, it may be useful to increase the deck watch at night and leave lights on. A well-lit ship is less vulnerable to attacks.
Remember that the Maritime Global Security website at http://www.maritimeglobalsecurity.com offers industry-issued best practices and guidance to mariners by geographic region. Additional advice is also available from Gard’s website “Piracy and armed robbery at sea”.
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