United Nations Radio

The International Maritime Organization - IMO has expressed concern over the increasing acts of piracy off the coast of Somalia.

In a statement to the UN Security Council Thursday, the head of the IMO Ephthimios Mitropoulos also expressed concern over the frequency and ferocity of the attacks and the risk they pose to seafarers and the marine environment.

He says the strategic importance and significance of the Gulf of Aden makes it imperative that this shipping lane through which more than 12 per cent of the total volume of oil passes, is adequately protected against any acts of piracy.

"At IMO, we believe that we have to act - and act fast and with firm determination - to rid the world of this modern scourge. A coordinated and cohesive response, at the international and national level, is therefore necessary for the safety and well-being of seafarers."

Mitropoulos says it's also for the seamless delivery of humanitarian aid to Somalia; for the protection of the marine environment and for the shipping industry to continue t serve seaborne trade.

So far this year, there have been more than 120 reported attacks, resulting in more than 35 ships being seized by pirates.

Currently 14 ships and 280 crew members are being held hostage for ransom in Somalia.

This is Donn Bobb reporting for United Nations Radio.

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