Piracy – Security Guards Access Weaponry from 'Floating Armories'

Anti-piracy, privately-hired, security guards source their weapons in international waters ready for transit of danger areas

Private security firms are storing their guns aboard floating armouries in international waters so ships that want armed guards for passage through pirate-infested waters can cut costs and escape laws limiting the import and export of weapons, according to an article in 'The Scotsman' newspaper.

Storing guns on boats offshore took off as a business last year. Britain – where many of the operators are from – is investigating the legality of the practice. Floating armouries have become a viable business in the wake of increased security practices by the maritime industry, which has struggled for years to combat attacks by Somali pirates.

The article added that some members of the private security sector are now urging governments and industry leaders to impose standards on the unchecked practice of storing weapons off-shore to equip anti-pirate forces off Somalia’s coast.