Sri Lanka launches security service to guard ships against Somali pirates

Monday, 20 February 2012 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Sri Lanka’s State-owned Rakna Arakshaka Lanka has commenced a security service to safeguard the nation’s ships from Somali pirates.

Chairman Major General Palitha Fernando says that 200 armed personnel will be deployed to safeguard the ships that sail in the areas where the Somali pirates are operating.

The official said that the company was ready to provide security for the foreign ships as well if a request is made.

The service is rendered with the approval of the Ministry of Defence and the firearms for the personnel have been approved by the Ministry, said the Chairman of the company.

Somali piracy is one of the maritime security threats in the Indian Ocean and the existing international maritime laws and practices have proven ineffective in combating the activities of the Somali pirates.