WILLEMSTAD – Piracy in the waters of the Caribbean is once again on the rise. In recent years, the problem was primarily associated with the coast of Africa but now appears to be shifting back towards the Caribbean.

According to American sources, the primary cause of this piracy resurgence is the financial situation of sea fishermen. The fishing sector in Venezuela, in particular, has been struggling due to the economic downturn in the country. This has led to an increase in drug-related crimes at sea, prompting some fishermen to turn to piracy as a more profitable alternative.

The maritime robberies are predominantly occurring off the coasts of Venezuela, Colombia, Panama, Trinidad, and Guyana. Additionally, turf wars among fishermen contribute to incidents of piracy. Intense rivalry among fishing groups, stemming from their dire financial circumstances, is seen as a direct consequence of the precarious state of the economy.

Maritime traffic in the region is being advised to exercise caution and remain vigilant for armed attacks associated with piracy.

Bron: Curacao Chronicle