AdvanFort International is praising the probe by the Indian government into illegal bunkering (fueling) practices at its ports. “We are the real victim here,” said AdvanFort President William H. Watson. “We utilized what we believed to be a reputable agent to obtain fuel for the SEAMAN GUARD OHIO." 

Captain Watson pointed out that traditionally it is the responsibility of the agent and the fuel vendor to obtain appropriate licenses and permits. He added: "It appears that this time, that wasn’t the case.”

Watson noted that in another recent purchase of bunkers, contaminated marine diesel fuel was pumped into a second AdvanFort counter-piracy vessel. Unfortunately, vessel owners and operators seem easy targets for disreputable fuel vendors. 

“Dirty fuel can land a vessel in dry dock," the AdvanFort president noted, "and illegal fuel can place a vessel and its crew under the scrutiny of law enforcement officials.” 

An account of the story in today’s edition of The Economic Times noted that, “the Tamil Nadu police have launched a manhunt for two men who allegedly procured and supplied diesel illegally for Seaman Guard Ohio.” 

"We want to see these people caught and if there was any illegality, we will gladly participate in any prosecution," Captain Watson declared.

Watson also pointed to another story in the Indian press that related to the firearms issue. “Unfortunately, much has been made of documentation relating to the firearms aboard the OHIO,” he noted. “AdvanFort purchased these weapons legally, registered them properly, and has the appropriate licenses. Our guards use these firearms only to repel pirates and handle them safely in doing so.” 

Regarding the labyrinth of firearms laws, a particular challenge for privately contracted armed security personnel (PCASP) who protect clients’ cargo ships in high risk areas (HRA) of piracy, an article in The Hindu pointed out that this incident “has exposed a ‘nebulous area’ in the legality of the rapidly growing practice.”

In conclusion, Captain Watson stated: “Neither AdvanFort nor the crew nor the brave guards aboard OHIO ever intended to violate any law. They spend months at a time at sea and are dedicated to safeguarding commercial shipping from piracy attack.”

**For additional information, please contact:

William H. Watson, President, AdvanFort International

William.watson@advanfort.com                     +1.703.678.8418