Increase In Maximum Number Of Firearms Permitted Under Antipiracy Law

The Protection of Cyprus Ships Against Acts of Piracy and Other Unlawful Acts Law 2012¹ permits the use of firearms and other equipment where necessary, subject to strict safety and security controls.

On December 11 2017 the Department of Merchant Shipping announced an increase in the maximum total number of firearms that approved private ship security contractors are entitled to register under the law. On the basis of the latest experience gained through the implementation of the law and in accordance with Articles 70 and 81, the competent authority – the minister of communications and works – has increased the maximum number of firearms per approved contractor from 400 to 600.