Malta introduces licensing for anti-piracy guards
Malta has introduced licensing for armed guards used on ships to ward off piracy.
The Licensing of Private Maritime Security Companies Regulations (Subsidiary Legislation 480.05) was published on March 8 2013 makes it mandatory for companies to obtain a license whilst running private maritime security business. It also lays out the circumstances under which a private maritime security company incorporated in Malta may obtain a license, listing more than 20 obligations.
Through this licensing regime, Malta aims at ensuring that those companies that obtain a license are suitable for such sensitive and demanding activity.
The policy has been well received by private maritime security companies, which are willing to cooperate.