Piracy and privately contracted armed security personnel : a comparative analysis of the global response to the deployment of armed guards on board merchant vessels and South Africa's policy as a port and coastal state.

Abstract

This study examines the policies adopted by flag and port states to govern the use of armed guards on board merchant vessels. The International Maritime Organisation and a number of member states’ responses to the use of armed guards on board ships are discussed. The focus of this study is the South African policy on privately contracted armed security personnel intending to embark or disembark in a South African port with arms and ammunition.

The question of whether South Africa allows armed guards in its territory is addressed, as well as the requirements and conditions attached to such permission. The dissertation concludes by recommending that the Regulations to the South African Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000 should be amended in order to give effect to and streamline the permit process for foreign security firms.