4.1 A State's counter-piracy policy should contain
measures regarding the eventuality that a ship entitled to fly its
flag is captured, and to ensure that, as far as possible, the humanitarian
needs of the crew and families are addressed during the period of
captivity and after release. In particular, it should ensure that:
-
.1 shipowners operating ships entitled to fly
its flag are aware of and implement the guidance contained in MSC.1/Circ.1390, Guidance for company security
officers (CSOs) – Preparation of a Company and crew for the
contingency of hijack by pirates in the Western Indian Ocean and the
Gulf of Aden;
-
.2 the shipowner or operator of a ship captured
by pirates keeps the families of hijacked seafarers informed of relevant
developments; and
-
.3 shipowners look after the welfare of captured
seafarers and their families.
4.2 The Administration should establish, as necessary,
plans and procedures to assist owners, managers and operators of ships
entitled to fly its flag in the speedy resolution of hijacking cases
occurring in the waters off the coast of Somalia, including the Gulf
of Aden and the western Indian Ocean.