How Modern Pirates Work

Modern pirates might sound like real heroes from a romantic book; however they are very far from that.They are responsible for a large number of ship attacks. The most dangerous places to operate due to pirates include Somalia, Indonesia and Bangladesh. These pirates attack cargo ships, tankers and container ships. They can then share the loot or ask for ransom.

Some of the reasons for modern piracy include:

• The economic conditions of pirate prone areas encourage thriving of the illegal trade. In addition lack of a proper government in some areas like Somalia promotes illegal activities.
• Due to delays in operations, some ship masters are not so keen on reporting pirate attacks. This encourages the trade as no action is taken on existing pirates.
• Some ships have small crews to save on money and expenses. This however makes them prone to pirate attacks.

The methods of attacking ships have not changed much since the Golden age of piracy. Most pirates will attack a ship at night from the stern. By using grappling hooks, ropes or even hooks one pole they will gain access to the ship without raising an alarm. 

They are not just after the goods as many people might think. Apparently, goods are a lower target as they would require ready markets to sell. Money, personal valuables like jewelry, electronics are high up a pirates list. Sometimes modern pirates will hold a ship and request ransom from companies or governments which the crew belong.

Most ship attacks appear near the shore. Pirates use speed boats to get access to sea going vessels. In the event pirates attack a vessel in the high seas, the normally use a smaller ship. Canoes can also be used for vessels that are very near the shore.

Heavy weaponry is usually used by the pirates. Guns, knives, grenades and rocket launchers are just some of the weapons that crew are threatened with. Marooning as well as assault can be used for achieving faster results. Modern technology like communication equipment is also used to determine which ships are vulnerable and also in asking for ransoms.

Unlike their predecessors in the Golden age of piracy, modern pirates operate from dry land and will only go to sea poised for an attack. They usually have ready markets for the loots and ports where goods can be smuggled without government checks.