(EnergyAsia, December 5, Friday) — Following recent high-profile incidences of piracy, Intertanko said it will support the decision of tanker operators to avoid sailing in the waters off Somalia’s coasts and in the Gulf of Aden, and to sail instead via the Cape of Good Hope and East of Madagascar.

The association has issued a statement stating that its members abhor the rapidly escalating piracy situation off the coasts of Somalia and are extremely concerned for the safety of all seafarers and for the ability to deliver cargo safely.

Following a meeting this week of its governing Council,  Intertanko said it fully appreciate the reasons for tanker operators reaching such a decision.

“Understandably many more members are now considering similar action,” it said.

“Our concern remains for the safety of seafarers and for the lack of effective naval protection. We need immediate action from governments to protect these vital trade lanes – robust action in the form of greater naval and military support with a clear mandate to engage, to arrest pirates and to bring them to trial.”