Commercial Vessel

Since our initial commercial vessel task in 2004, the rate of piracy directed against commercial vessels has increased dramatically.

In January 2009 Somali pirates released the Saudi super tanker Sirius Star whose capture two months earlier drew the world's attention to the surge in piracy off the Horn of Africa. Since this incident began, navies from many countries have become resolute to protect one of the world's most important shipping lanes. Major international powers and private security companies have also been debating a long-term solution to the hijackings in what have become the most dangerous waters in the world - accounting for a third of all pirate attacks. Veritas International has produced an all-encompassing solution to mitigate these risks to our commercial clients.

Veritas International is a market leading company in commercial maritime security and emergency response. Our specialist Maritime Security Teams are recognized for their expertise, unique approach and proven track record. We have developed a unique range of services for commercial vessels of all sizes that shield against the various maritime security threats.

Armed with unrivalled global expertise, the Veritas Maritime Security Teams have a thorough understanding of International Maritime Organisation (IMO) ISPS Code and its binding legal requirements for ports, shipping firms and individual vessels; are fully compliant with the UK Home Office approved Standard Operating Procedures for the embarkation and disembarkation of security teams and their equipment; are fully licensed to operate from 38 different countries around the world and are expert in their understanding on the Rules for the Use of Armed Force.

Our security teams are specifically selected against thorough criteria which include a written testimonial from his former Commanding Officer, 3 separate internal interviews and a reference from an existing Veritas Team Leader.

While on transit, and in compliance with BMP4, our fully licensed and equipped team will advise on hardening and protection measures installation, conduct crew training and rehearsals, and maintain a constant security watch on the outer deck. With the Master's permission, the Veritas Maritime Security Team can defend any vessel from a determined pirate attack.

Compliance

Veritas International is a leading light in the industry for all areas of compliance.

Firearms

Our company firearms are specifically procured for Counter-Piracy operations. All are new when purchased and are supplied from a UK Home Office approved firearms dealer. Each firearm is chambered for high velocity ammunition and operates in either Single Shot or Semi-Automatic states and therefore outperform, in range and accuracy, those firearms employed by the pirates.

Personnel

Veritas ensures that all Maritime Security Officers are fully qualified and have the appropriate level of experience. Every Maritime Security Officer provided by Veritas International has been specifically selected against thorough criteria which include a written testimonial from his former Commanding Officer, 3 separate internal interviews and a reference from an existing Veritas Team Leader. Each consultant, in accordance with IMO and other industry guidelines, will hold the following qualifications:

  • Maritime Security Officers qualification
  • STCW 95: A - VI/1-(1,2,3,4)
  • UK Seaman's discharge book
  • ENG 1 Seafarer's medical
  • UK Criminal Record Bureau checked
  • Military reference/ Proof of military service
  • Veritas International training package, including Rules for the Use of Armed Force scenario training
  • Firearms Competency Course

Insurance & Legal

Veritas International insures company, client and individual, protection for every eventuality. It has, within the company, a dedicated legal counsel specialising in Maritime Law. Comprehensive insurance policies provide clients' and the Company with the following extensive coverage:

  • Professional Liability - US$ 5 Million
  • General/Public Liability - US$ 5 Million
  • Employers Liability - GB£ 10 Million
  • Personal Accident Medical Expenses - GB£ 5 Million

Industry Standards

Veritas International strictly adheres to the following standards, industry guidance and recommendations:

  • IMO MSC.1/Circ. 1405, 1406 & 1408
  • BSN EN ISO 9001:2008 - Certificate No. 13833
  • Signatory Company to the International Code of Conduct for Private Security Service Providers (ICoC)
  • Member of the British Society of Maritime Industries