Headlines From This Week 

• YouTube Shooting – On Tuesday 03 April, Nasim Aghdam opened fire with a handgun at the headquarters of YouTube in San Francisco, wounding three people before killing herself. Nasim was a content-creator who had become distressed with YouTube after a change on the website allegedly reduced the views of her content and negatively impacted her income. The three people she wounded in the attack were not previously known to her and appear to have been selected at random.

• Boko Haram Attacked Maiduguri – Insurgents belonging to the Islamic State affiliate Boko Haram launched an attack against the Nigerian city of Maiduguri in Borno State. The attack resulted in the deaths of at least 18 people, with over 80 suffering serious injuries. The attack was focussed on Nigerian security forces situated around the city’s perimeter, however most of the casualties inflicted through the hour-long battle were civilians. The Nigerian government is reportedly seeking to engage in peace talks with Boko Haram.

• Tropical Cyclone Josie – Fiji was struck by the category one cyclone last weekend, resulting in at least four fatalities as extreme winds and rain battered the pacific nation. Infrastructure damage remained relatively limited, however disruption to travel and service provision can be expected across the island over the next few weeks. Although the storm has been downgraded, potentially dangerous winds remain forecast.

• Talks Advance in Korea – A spate of diplomatic activity on the Korean peninsula has led to widespread statements of support from powers allied to both North and South. China in particular has expressed hope that the upcoming talks between the USA, South and North Korea will make concrete progress towards deescalating tensions on the peninsula.

• Road Obstructions in Albania – Albania has seen widespread protests obstructing highways in response to the installation of a new toll road connecting Albania and Kosovo but routed through a relatively deprived area of the country. The protests led to significant delays to road travel and instances of vandalism, with several toll-booths smashed and set alight. No casualties were officially reported, however dozens were detained.

• Former Brazilian President Imprisoned – Luis da Silva was handed a custodial sentence as a result of a wide-ranging and ongoing anti-corruption investigation. Supporters of ‘Lula’ maintain that the charges are politically motivated, with the intention of preventing the highly popular politician from running for re-election as president. His defence team intend to continue to appeal the sentence, and there remains a realistic probability that the court’s decision will lead to continued civil unrest.

What To Look Out For Next Week

• Songkran Festival – The Thai New Year’s festival is held between 13-15 April and marks the beginning of the Thai solar year. Songkran is the longest national holiday in Thailand, and as such locals often capitalise on the opportunity to travel home for extended family gatherings. Major travel services will continue to function, but travellers should expect them to be significantly busier than normal. Hotels and other accommodation are also likely to be uncharacteristically busy; travellers should ensure all accommodation and travel is booked and confirmed before arrival in Thailand over this period.

• Summit of the Americas – Peru is to host the eighth Summit of the Americas in Lima over 13-14 April. The summit is highly likely to result in enhanced security measures throughout the city in the lead up to, and during, the summit. National leaders or senior government representatives of most American states are scheduled to attend, although the Peruvian government has continued to bar access for Venezuela’s President Maduro. Ongoing unrest and oppression in Venezuela is likely to be a key topic at the summit as the large numbers of refugees and migrants fleeing the country are heavily impacting its neighbours.

• Hungarian Parliamentary Elections – On 08 April, Hungarians will go to the polls to elect 199 members of the National Assembly. The election campaign has been driven by divisive campaigning, with the incumbent Prime Minister, Viktor Orban, using Euroscepticism, xenophobia, and openly illiberal policy positions as prominent features of his campaign. Concerns relating to the 2016 migration crisis remain prominent in Hungary’s national consciousness, and observers suggest that there is an increasing political void between the urban and rural elements of the population. Travellers should expect protests and rallies in the lead up to, and following the election, with a realistic possibility of outbreaks of violence.

• Azerbaijani Presidential Elections – The first of two potential rounds of the Azerbaijani presidential election is scheduled for 11 April, with eight candidates campaigning to hold the office for seven years. If no candidate wins more than 50 per cent of the vote in the first poll, the top two candidates will face each other in a run-off, the date for which has not been announced. The vote was constitutionally scheduled for October 2018, however the President issued a decree on 05 February to advance the poll to April and avoid clashing with “important domestic and international events”. Local political analysts suggest that the new date has been selected to deny opposition candidates appropriate time to prepare; and due to internal pressures within the ruling party, which pose a threat of rupturing the President’s support base before an October election.

Significant Dates and Events

• 07 April – Judaism – Last night of Passover
• 07 April – Israel – Anti-corruption protest scheduled in Tel Aviv
• 07 April – Kyrgyzstan – Day of the People’s April Revolution
• 07 April – Rwanda – Genocide against the Tutsi Memorial Day
• 07 April – Serbia – Far-right group to march on Belgrade
• 07 April – Fiji – FTUC protest march in Suva
• 07 April – Hong Kong – Pro-democracy protest in Civic Square
• 07-10 April – France – Rail workers to strike
• 08 April – Various – Orthodox Easter Sunday
• 08 April – Niger – Nationwide opposition protests to be held
• 08 April – Norway – Private sector transport workers to commence strike action
• 08-09 April – Hungary – Election rallies planned around Budapest
• 09 April – Spain – Unionbus workers to strike
• 09 April – Egypt – Sham El Nessim
• 09 April – Georgia – Day of National Unity
• 09 April – Kosovo – Constitution Day
• 09 April – Philippines – The Day of Valour
• 10 April – Greece – UberX service to cease
• 10-13 April – Chile – Lan Express flights cancelled due to strike action
• 11 April – Australia – Animal rights protesters due to demonstrate outside Parliament House, Sydney
• 11-14 April – Togo – Opposition protests scheduled throughout Lome
• 11-14 April – South Africa – State funeral for Winnie Mandela likely to cause disruption in Soweto
• 12-13 April – Italy – 48-hour strike to be held by public nursing staff
• 13 April – China – Shanghai Formula 1 race
• 15 April – North Korea – Celebration of Kim Il Sung’s birthday
• 16 April – UK – Commonwealth Head of State meeting in London
• 16-17 April – Portugal – Train staff to strike
• 20 April – UK – Docklands Light Railway staff to strike

Click the following link to download this report as a PDF: Weekly Risk Roundup – Week 14 The Weekly Risk Roundup highlights significant events from the last week and what to look out for next week. Week 14 Weekly Risk Roundup was compiled by Solace Global’s in-house intelligence team.

The recent release of the Solace Secure version 5.2. has seen some exciting new features and enhancements, all driven by client requests and feedback. The most notable updates include:

Gulf of Guinea – Maritime Security Incidents

22 Mar 18: Vessel Attacked near Bonny, Nigeria. A merchant vessel underway at 03°35’N 006°44’E was attacked by a group of pirates aboard two speedboats. Vessel and crew reported safe. 22 Mar 18: Fishing Vessels Hijacked south of Lagos, Nigeria. Two fishing vessels were attacked by pirates aboard a speedboat at 06°01’N 003°12’E. Both vessels were hijacked and sailed into Benin waters before being released and sailing to Lagos. Two crew members were kidnapped. Nigerian Naval personnel are investigating the incident. 22 Mar 18: Vessel Boarded near Cotonou, Benin. An anchored merchant vessel at 06°15’N 002°30’E was boarded by eight pirates armed with firearms and bladed weapons. They ordered the crew to start the vessels main engine. When this failed, they remained aboard for 90 minutes to steal ship’s stores and crew possessions before escaping.

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South East Asia – Maritime Security Incidents

24 Mar 18: Attempted Boarding in Caofeidian, China. Two robbers in a wooden boat attempted to board an anchored bulk carrier via ladder at 38°44’N 118°33’E. Crew members spotted the boarding and raised the alarm, causing the robbers to flee.

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Indian Ocean HRA – Maritime Security Incidents

26 Mar 18: Houthi Rebel Missile Attack on Saudi Cities. Yemen’s Houthi rebels launched seven ballistic missiles against four Saudi cities; Riyadh, Jizan, Najran, and Khamis Mushait. There is conflicted reporting as to whether the missiles were successfully intercepted. At least one person was killed as a result of the attack. Maritime and naval activities in the Gulf of Aden and Red Sea are likely to intensify following the attack, particularly seeking to interdict weapon shipments to the Houthi group.

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Click link to Download PDF: Solace Global Maritime Security Snapshot – Week 12 A roundup of maritime security incidents – an easy to read format collating suspicious approaches, vessel attacks, boardings, hijacks and media reports. The week 12 Maritime Security Snapshot was compiled by Solace Global’s in-house intelligence team.

Headlines From This Week 

• Potential Terror Incident in France – A gunman claiming allegiance to the Islamic State group fired shots and took hostages at a supermarket in the town of Trebes in France on 23 March. Police were also dealing with a shooting in nearby Carcassonne. Estimates suggest that there are three dead and two injured in these two incidents, not including the gunman who is believed to have been killed as police stormed the supermarket.
•  Peru President Offers Resignation – The president of Peru offered his resignation on 21 March 2018, ahead of an impeachment vote regarding corruption charges. This could see power passed to First Vice President Martin Vizcarra. President Kuczynski has criticised opponents led by one-time presidential nominee and daughter of former strongman leader Alberto Fujimori, Keiko Fujimori. There is a potential for a new election to be called within a year. Protests have occurred in Lima and reports suggest they have turned violent.
•  Kabul Bombing – At least 32 people were killed after a suicide bombing at the Sakhi Shrine in Kabul, Afghanistan. The attack came as crowds gathered to celebrate Nowruz festival or Persian New Year; many in the crowd belonged to the Shia minority. The attack was claimed by the Islamic State branch in Afghanistan.
•  Austin Bomber Killed – The individual believed to have been behind five bombings in the American city of Austin which killed two people, was killed on 21 March. He also stands accused of injuring six others. The culprit was killed when he detonated a bomb after a police chase; his motive remains unclear at this time.
•  State of Emergency Lifted in Maldives – Maldives President Abdulla Yameen has lifted the country’s state of emergency after 45 days. The emergency was imposed following a political and constitutional crisis after a Supreme Court order to release nine persons including the exiled former President Mohamed Nasheed. Yameen has increased his grip on power. Further protests should be expected.
•  School Girls Freed in Nigeria – The government in Nigeria reported on 21 March that almost all of the 110 girls kidnapped by Boko Haram from Dapchi had been returned. The fate of nine girls remains unclear. Reports suggest that the Nigerian government were forced to pay or trade something to get their release. The girls were abducted on 19 February 2018; troops had reportedly left Dapchi the day before.
•  US Trade Tariffs – President Trump has announced a series of trade tariffs on Chinese imports, heightening fears of a global trade war. The imposition of the tariffs comes after an investigation into intellectual property theft by China and Chinese companies. Tariffs are expected to impact Chinese imports worth $50-60 billion.

What To Look Out For Next Week

• Elections in Egypt – The presidential elections in Egypt are due to take place between 26 and 28 March 2018, with the potential for a second-round run-off between 24 and 26 April. There are only two candidates in the race – President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and Moussa Mostafa Moussa of El-Ghad Party. Sisi is expected to win handsomely with Moussa being described as being a phony candidate, due to him being a supporter of the current president. Sisi has been able to prevent any serious opposition through arrest and other means.
•  March for our Lives – On 24 March, protestors will take to the streets of Washington DC and in 831 other locations worldwide to end gun violence and mass shootings at schools. The protest will begin at 1200hrs on Pennsylvania Avenue in the US capital; disruption is expected. For more information on the locations of protests, see https://marchforourlives.com/.
• Jewish Festival of Passover – Jews around the world will celebrate Passover 2018 from the evening of 30 March until 07 April. Terror attacks are possible during this period and recent developments may make such incidents more likely, including the US recognising Jerusalem as the Israeli capital. Israeli security forces are also preparing for a Palestinian “Day of Rage” on 30 March. This date commemorates a 1976 decision by Israel to expropriate land in the Galilee region, which led to riots and the deaths of six Arab-Israeli citizens.
•  Christian Festival of Easter – Travellers in Christian majority countries can expect some travel disruption between 29 March and 02 April as the Christian festival of Easter is celebrated. Travellers should plan ahead during this period and expect delays on roads and engineering works on key infrastructure including rail lines.
•  Rallies in Belarus – Protests for ‘Freedom Day’ (an unofficial holiday marking Belarus’s 1918 independence) are set to be held in Belarus on 25 March, beginning at 1300hrs. Reports indicate that the city authorities in Minsk, Grodno, and Brest have authorised these activities. However, there is the potential for these rallies to escalate into violence or for unauthorised events to occur. It is advisable to avoid all large gatherings during this period; rallies in 2017 saw the detention of around 700 protesters.
•  Sierra Leone Elections – The run-off, second-round vote for the 2018 presidential elections in Sierra Leone will be held on 27 March. Opposition leader Julius Maada Bio of the Sierra Leone People’s Party and Samura Kamara of the ruling All People’s Congress will contest the vote; the two were separated by under 15,000 votes in the first round. At least five violent incidents involving beatings, stone-throwing, and arson have occurred during this election period; there are fears that violence will escalate as the election approaches and in its aftermath.

Significant Dates and Events

• 23-25 March – Australia – Formula One Grand Prix in Melbourne
• 24 March – Argentina – Truth and Justice Memorial Day
• 24 March – Cote d’Ivoire – Senate Elections
• 24 March – South Korea – Kumho Tyre Protest in Gwangju
• 25 March – Greece and Cyprus – Greek Independence Day
• 25 March – Cameroon – Senate Elections
• 25 March – Hinduism – Festival of Sri Rama Navami (celebrated in locations with Hindu populations)
• 25 March – Moldova – Union Act Rally in Chisinau
• 25 March – Turkmenistan – Parliamentary Elections
• 25 March – Italy – Deadline for formation of parliamentary groups in the Italian Parliament
• 26 March – Bangladesh – Independence Day
• 26 March – Mali – Martyrs’ Day
• 27 March – Myanmar – Armed Forces Day
• 29 March – Madagascar – Martyrs’ day
• 29 March – Central African Republic – Barthelemy Boganda Day
• 30 March – Islam – Birthday of Ali Ibn Abi Talib, important to Shia Muslims
• 30-31 March – South Africa – Two Oceans Marathon, Cape Town
• 31 March – Malta – Freedom Day
• 31 March – Myanmar – Full Moon of Tabaung (Magha Puja)
• 31 March – Trinidad and Tobago – Spiritual Baptist Liberation Day
• 31 March – Iran – Imam Ali’s Birthday
• 31 March – Sri Lanka – Bak Full Moon Poya
• 01 April – Benin – Youth Day
• 01 April – Cyprus – Greek Cypriot National Day
• 01 April – Iran – Islamic Republic Day
• 02 April – India – Trade Unions call for strike across Kerala state
• 02 April – Argentina – Malvinas Day
• 02 April – South Africa – Family Day
• 02 April – United States – 2018 Masters golf tournament in Augusta, Georgia

Click the following link to download this report as a PDF: Weekly Risk Roundup – Week 12 The Weekly Risk Roundup highlights significant events from the last week and what to look out for next week. Week 12 Weekly Risk Roundup was compiled by Solace Global’s in-house intelligence team.

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Gulf of Guinea – Maritime Security Incidents

14 Mar 18: Attempted boarding near Bonny, Nigeria. A tanker underway at 03°51’N 006°40’E was attacked by a group of pirates in a speedboat. The tanker’s evasive actions prevented the attackers from boarding. Vessel and crew reported safe. 16 Mar 18: Vessel Attack near Bonny, Nigeria. A general cargo ship was attacked whilst underway at position 3°57’0N 006°42’5E at 0800UTC. Armed pirates attacked and boarded the vessel. The alarm was raised and all crew retreated to the citadel. The Nigerian Navy dispatched patrol boats to assist the ship. Naval personnel boarded the ship, however no pirates were found onboard. The crew emerged from the citadel and sailed to safe port under escort by the navy. Vessel reported safe. 16 Mar 18: Attempted Attack near Fairway Buoy, Nigeria. A merchant vessel underway at 04°09’N 006°56’E was attacked by a group of pirates in a speedboat. The vessel’s armed security team prevented the attackers from boarding. Vessel and crew reported safe.

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South East Asia – Maritime Security Incidents

17 Mar 18: Attempted Boarding in Caofeidian Anchorage, China. Three robbers in a small boat attempted to board an anchored bulk carrier in position 38°51’2N, 118°36’6E at 1640UTC. The crew noticed the robbers and raised the alarm. The robbers aborted the attempt to board and escaped.

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Click link to Download PDF:  20180320 – Solace Global Maritime Security Snapshot – Week 11 A roundup of maritime security incidents – an easy to read format collating suspicious approaches, vessel attacks, boardings, hijacks and media reports. The week 11 Maritime Security Snapshot was compiled by Solace Global’s in-house intelligence team.

Headlines From This Week 

• Curfew Implemented in Colon, Panama – Following a spate of civil unrest, a curfew was implemented in Colon on 13 March. Protests were triggered in response to the poor implementation of an infrastructure renovation project, which has led to sanitation issues and flooding. Police with less-than-lethal weapons clashed with protesters throwing rocks, resulting in numerous injured. Isolated reports of burned vehicles and looting also occurred. Tensions are likely to persist.
• Violent Protests in Conakry, Guinea – Protests centred around the Wanindara suburb of Conakry have been ongoing since 13 March, following demands by opposition leaders for the vote counts from the February election to be made public. At least two people were shot dead during the unrest, however the circumstances of these remain unclear. Disruption was caused to bauxite extraction and export operations in the region.
• Palestinian Prime Minister Attacked on 13 March – The Palestinian Prime Minister, Rami Hamdallah, was targeted by a roadside improvised explosive device in Gaza. The blast damaged several vehicles in the Prime Minister’s motorcade, although no casualties were reported. The aim of the attackers remains unclear, and no group has sought to claim credit for the attack. Ongoing tensions between Hamas and Fatah may have been a factor in the lead up to the attack.
• Police killed in Chhattisgarh – Nine members of India’s Central Reserve Police Force were killed in Chhattisgarh when their protected vehicle was struck by a large improvised explosive device. The attack was carried out by a Maoist insurgent group known locally as the Naxals. Reporting suggests that a large number of Naxal fighters continue to operate in the region; attacks are generally focussed on security forces or government targets.
• Russia and the UK Reciprocate Diplomatic Expulsions – Following an apparent assassination attempt by suspected Russian agents in Salisbury, UK, the British and Russian governments have engaged in tit-for-tat expulsions of diplomatic staff. Deteriorating relations between the UK and Russia are likely to have wider impact on relations between Russia, and both the EU and US. Russian travellers in the UK, or British travellers in Russia may experience increased levels of harassment from locals or, if in Russia, officials following the incident.
• 50,000 Refugees Departed Eastern Ghouta – Present estimates suggest that intermittent lulls in the fighting around the Damascus suburb of Easter Ghouta have permitted approximately 50,000 civilians to flee over the past week.

What To Look Out For Next Week

• Russian Presidential Election – The Russian presidential election is scheduled for 18 March. The incumbent president, Vladimir Putin, is running against seven opposition candidates, yet is presently receiving approximately 70 per cent support in official polling. Election fraud and corruption is endemic throughout Russia, and urban protests in response to such allegations frequently follow elections. Travellers should be aware that heightened security measures are likely to be in place throughout the election period and near polling sites.
• Tunisian Independence Day – Tunisia celebrates its Independence Day on 20 March. The country has recently experienced waves of protests, in part due to the relative impunity enjoyed by security forces when accused of malpractice or brutality, and also due to the perceived lack of judicial independence. It is likely that protests will occur during the Independence Day events, and there remains an underlying risk that these may become violent.
• Ugadi/Nyepu – The festival of Ugadi represents the New Year celebrated by Hindu populations in India and across the world. Celebrations often vary by region, however travellers are likely to experience disruption and reduced services when visiting any majority-Hindu area. Indonesian Hindus refer to the holiday as Nyepi; services may be shut down in some areas during the celebrations; Bali is scheduled to restrict internet access.
• Nowruz – Nowruz is the traditional Persian New Year, and is celebrated on 20 March in a number of countries with historical cultural ties to Persia, modern-day Iran. The holiday is widely politicised, political leaders often conduct rallies and speeches in the countries where it is celebrated. As Persian population groups may be a minority, it is possible these celebrations will exacerbate ethnic tensions.
• Broad Front Protests, Venezuela – The opposition group known as the Broad Front for a Free Venezuela, called for nationwide demonstrations on 17 March, in relation to the presidential election scheduled for April 2018. This marks the first significant attempt by the opposition to mass-mobilise the population since a four-month wave of protests in 2017. Political rallies and protests in Venezuela are often accompanied by violence, with security forces operating in a heavy-handed and repressive manner.
• European Anti-Racism Demonstrations – Several European cities; generally national and regional capitals such as London, Edinburgh, and Paris; are scheduled to host demonstrations against racism, anti-Semitism, and Islamophobia. Estimates suggest each protest is likely to attract more than one thousand people. It is likely that far-right or anti-immigration groups will seek to conduct counter demonstrations and may seek to disrupt the events. Travellers should avoid any demonstrations if possible, regardless of apparent peaceful intent.

Significant Dates and Events

• 17 March – Bangladesh – Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s birthday
• 17 March – Ireland – Patrick’s Day
• 17 March – Serbia – Anti-Kosovo independence protest to take place in Belgrade
• 17 March – Argentina – Anniversary of 1992 bombing of Israeli Embassy in Buenos Aires
• 17 March – Germany – Far-right rallies and counter protests planned in Munich
• 17 March – Burundi – Protests scheduled in Bujumbura
• 18 March – United Kingdom – Pro-Kurdish Rallies in Oxford
• 18 March – Australia – ASEAN summit in Sydney, enhanced security likely.
• 19 March – Togo – Opposition protests scheduled for the week following 19 March
• 19 March – Mexico – Benito Juarez’s Birthday (public holiday)
• 19 March – India – Ola and Uber drivers to strike
• 19 March – Australia – Pro-environmental rally to be held in Marrickville, Sydney
• 21 March – Japan – Vernal Equinox Day
• 21 March – Namibia – Independence Day
• 21 March – South Africa – Human Rights Day
• 22 March – Puerto Rico – Emancipation Day
• 22 March – France – General strike by the SNCF union. Public transport is highly likely to be disrupted.
• 22 March – Italy – Public transport workers to strike in Rome.
• 23 March – Pakistan – Pakistan Day
• 23 March – Peru – Eighth Summit of the Americas to be held in Lima
• 24 March – Argentina – Truth and Justice Memorial Day
• 25 March – Greece and Cyprus – Greek Independence Day
• 26 March – Bangladesh – Independence Day
• 26 March – Mali – Martyrs’ Day
• 26 March – Egypt – First Round of the Presidential Elections.
• 27 March – Myanmar – Armed Forces Day
• 29 March – Madagascar – Martyrs’ day

Click the following link to download this report as a PDF: Weekly Risk Roundup – Week 11 The Weekly Risk Roundup highlights significant events from the last week and what to look out for next week. Week 11 Weekly Risk Roundup was compiled by Solace Global’s in-house intelligence team.

Gulf of Guinea – Maritime Security Incidents

12 Mar 18: Speedboats Stolen by Armed Group in Bayelsa. A group of armed men attacked the Ayama area of Bayelsa, Nigeria, potentially killing or injuring up to five people. The group fled before security forces could respond, towing approximately ten stolen speedboats. 08 Mar 18: Suspicious Approach near Takoradi Anchorage, Ghana. A merchant vessel underway at 03°55’N 001°14’E was approached by three speedboats. Weapons and six persons sighted on one speedboat. Vessel safe. 06 Mar 18: – Update – Tanker Attacked near Bonny Island, Nigeria. A tanker underway at 04°05’N 006°57’E was approached by two speedboats, the occupants of which boarded the tanker with firearms. All crew took refuge in the citadel, no hostages taken. Pirates departed after damaging navigation and communication equipment. All crew safe.

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Indian Ocean – Maritime Security Incidents

08 Mar 18: Suspicious Approach in Bab-el-Mandeb. A merchant vessel was approached by three skiffs at 12°32’N 043°27’E, south of Perim Island.

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South East Asia – Maritime Security Incidents

06 Feb 18: LATE REPORT: Robbery From Anchored Vessel, Chittagong, Bangladesh. A merchant vessel at 22*08’N 091*44’E was boarded by six men who threatened the crew and escaped with ship’s properties. Crew reported safe.  

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Click link to Download PDF:  Solace Global Maritime Security Snapshot – Week 10 A roundup of maritime security incidents – an easy to read format collating suspicious approaches, vessel attacks, boardings, hijacks and media reports. The week 10 Maritime Security Snapshot was compiled by Solace Global’s in-house intelligence team.

Headlines From This Week 

• Warming Relations on the Korean Peninsula – President Trump has agreed to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, after overtures from Pyongyang. The warming of relations between North Korea, South Korea, and the Unite States is highly unexpected, especially given the high tensions in 2017. It is unclear what can be expected to be gained from any talks, but reports suggest that Pyongyang is considering denuclearisation in return for regime security. The warming of relations between North and South Korea largely came as a result of 2018 Pyeongchang Olympic Games and the differing, yet seemingly complementary, tactics of Seoul and Washington. 
• Violent Unrest in Sri Lanka – This week saw violent unrest in the island nation of Sri Lanka as Buddhists and Muslims clashed, most notably in the city of Kandy. Reports from 09 March suggest that the situation has calmed somewhat after a state of emergency and curfew were implemented. The Sri Lankan military has reportedly been able to quell Buddhist rioters who had attacked mosques and Muslim-owned businesses. There have not been any reports of tourist areas being affected by the violence.
• Papua New Guinea Earthquake – Over 100 people are now believed to have died after an earthquake struck the highlands of Papua New Guinea (PNG), with strong aftershocks still being felt. The remoteness of those affected has made rescue efforts a struggle, despite assistance from Australia and New Zealand. Key infrastructure has also been damaged with ExxonMobil forced to shut down all facilities in PNG; repairs and inspections could take around eight weeks.
• North America Winter Storms – A massive two-day winter storm that had stretched over a 3,000-kilometre front struck the eastern seaboard of North America, mainly impacting the northeast. The storm is one of the largest since the 1950s and has caused ground travel to come to a halt in many areas, and for flights to be cancelled; power outages have also been reported. A further storm is expected to bring hazardous weather conditions to the southeast coast of the US in the early part of next week.
• Elections in Italy – The Italian elections of 04 March brought about strong results of populist parties. The anti-establishment Five Star Movement won the largest share of the vote at 32 per cent while the far-right, anti-EU Lega party came third with more than 17 per cent. No party nor pre-election coalition has the necessary 40 per cent to govern. Talks between different parties will now have to take place to ensure that a government can be formed. This will prove difficult as the Five Star Movement ruled out going into government with any other party before the election. New elections may be called if no government can be formed.

What To Look Out For Next Week

• Colombia Elections – Legislative elections in Colombia are due to take place on 11 March. This will mark the first election in which the former rebel group, FARC, are due to participate; the peace deal with FARC has been divisive partly because they are guaranteed 10 seats in the legislature. Another rebel group, the ELN, remain active in Colombia despite peace overtures from the government. The ELN has increased their levels of violence since the end of the ceasefire in early 2018, though they have temporary halted hostilities for the election period.
• Tibetan Uprising Day – Observed on 10 March, Tibetan Uprising Day commemorates the 1959 uprising against the presence of China in Tibet. This anniversary often brings protests in neighbouring countries, such as India or Nepal, but these events have been toned down this year. Expect enhanced security measures in Tibet and the neighbouring provinces of Sichuan, Qinghai, Gansu, and Yunnan Provinces, as Chinese security forces seek to prevent self-immolations (the practice, often by monks, of committing suicide by fire as a form of protest).
• Australia-ASEAN Summit – The city of Sydney will host the Australia-Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Special Summit on 17-18 March. Enhanced security measures and road closures are set to be implemented. Protests should also be expected as a series of contentious issues are set to be discussed including political developments in Cambodia, the Rohingya crisis, and the drug war in the Philippines. Smaller summits and events will be held from 12 March.
• Resumption of Protests in Togo – After a period of relative calm, opposition groups have announced plans to resume protests on 13, 14, 15, and 17 March. Talks between the government and its opponents had been ongoing since 19 February. The capital Lomé is likely to be the focus of the protests which have turned deadly in the past. Opposition groups are demanding a return to the 1992 Constitution.
• Elections in Cuba – Elections will be held in Cuba on 11 March 2018 for members of the National Assembly of People’s Power. This election will mark the beginning of the end of the Castro brothers, with Raul due to step down in April 2018. As this election marks a generational change, it may encourage public unrest. Security forces may forcefully crush any demonstrations. In the previous election, the Communist Party won all 612 seats.
• Anti-Finance Law Protests in Niger – Anti-finance law protests are set to take place in Niger on 11 March, specifically in Niamey, Zinder, Maradi, Tillaberi, Tahoua, and Dosso. Previous protests have turned violent and should be avoided. The government claims the law will allow more efficient measures to be implemented against corruption.

Significant Dates and Events

• 09-18 March – South Korea – 2018 Winter Paralympics, Pyeongchang
• 11 March – Lithuania – Restoration of Independence Day
• 11 March – Lesotho – Moshoeshoe’s Day
• 11 March – Cuba – Legislative elections
• 12 March – Australia – Canberra and Labour Day
• 12 March – Commonwealth – Commonwealth Day
• 12 March – Zambia – Youth Day
• 12 March – Belize – National Heroes and Benefactors Day
• 12 March – Mauritius – National Day
• 13 March – Vatican City – Anniversary of the election of Pope Francis
• 13 March – Nepal – Presidential Elections
• 13 March – Grenada – Legislative Elections
• 14 March – Albania – Summer Day
• 15-16 March – Belarus – Constitution Day
• 15-16 March – Hungary – Public holiday
• 16 March – Philippines – Davao City Day
• 17 March – Bangladesh – Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s birthday
• 17 March – Indonesia – Hari Raya Nyepi
• 17 March – Austria – Anti-racism rally to be held in Vienna
• 17 March – Ireland – Patrick’s Day
• 17 March – France – Anti-police violence and discrimination march in Paris
• 17 March – Serbia – Anti-Kosovo independence protest to take place in Belgrade
• 17 March – Argentina – Anniversary of 1992 bombing of Israeli Embassy in Buenos Aires
• 18 March – Mauritius – Ougadi
• 18 March – Russia – Presidential Election
• 19 March – Mexico – Benito Juarez’s Birthday
• 20 March – Tunisia – Independence Day
• 20-24 March – Persian New Year (Noruz) – Celebrated in Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Iraq, and elsewhere
• 21 March – Japan – Vernal Equinox Day

Click the following link to download this report as a PDF: Weekly Risk Roundup – Week 10 The Weekly Risk Roundup highlights significant events from the last week and what to look out for next week. Week 10 Weekly Risk Roundup was compiled by Solace Global’s in-house intelligence team.

Gulf of Guinea – Maritime Security Incidents

06 Mar 18: Vessel Attacked near Bonny Island, Nigeria. A merchant vessel underway at 04°04’N 006°56’E was attacked by two speedboats carrying armed attackers. The vessel was damaged by gunfire. No reports regarding crew status were released. 01 Mar 18: Suspicious Approach South-East of Takoradi, Ghana. A cargo vessel underway at 04°31’N 001°21’E was approached by two speedboats, with six and three persons onboard respectively. The cargo vessel increased speed and altered course, causing the speedboats to abort their pursuit.

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Indian Ocean – Maritime Security Incidents

01 Mar 18: Suspicious Approach in Bab-el-Mandeb. A merchant vessel was approached by four skiffs which closed to within 0.5nm at 13°05’N 043°05’E. Ladders potentially spotted.

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South East Asia – Maritime Security Incidents

06 Mar 18: State of Emergency Declared in Sri Lanka. A spate of ethnically motivated unrest in Kandy led to the Sri Lankan government imposing a nationwide state of emergency.  Initial plans call for troops to be deployed in potential hotspots for a period of up to ten days. 03 Mar 18: Vessel boarded in Tanjung Priok, Indonesia. Two robbers were seen aboard the aft deck of a vessel anchored at 06°02’S, 106°53’E. Crew were alerted and the robbers fled empty handed. 10 Feb 18: (Late report) Attempted boarding, Kolkota, India. Crew aboard a bulk carrier at 22°11’N, 88°09’E, in Diamond Harbour, Kolkota,  detected three persons attempting to climb the anchor from a small boat. Crew members raised the alarm and the attackers fled.

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Click link to Download PDF:  Solace Global Maritime Security Snapshot – Week 09 A roundup of maritime security incidents – an easy to read format collating suspicious approaches, vessel attacks, boardings, hijacks and media reports. The week 09 Maritime Security Snapshot was compiled by Solace Global’s in-house intelligence team.

Headlines From This Week 

• Severe Cold Weather in the UK and Europe – The United Kingdom was caught between two competing weather systems from 28 February to 02 March; winds bringing cold air from Siberia, dubbed “the beast from the east”, clashed with Storm Emma which approached from the Atlantic. Widespread disruption was reported across Europe as atypical levels of snowfall and low temperatures led to challenging conditions for travel. Numerous instances of public transport vehicles becoming stranded with passengers. Rural areas are likely to remain isolated for a number of days.
• Student Protests in Lima – Thousands of Peruvian students took to the streets of Lima on 24 February in response to recent legislation they named the “Youth Slavery Law”. The legislation would allow companies to hire students as unpaid interns for periods of up to three years, and was approved by legislators on 21 February. Police prevented the march from approaching the parliament and used teargas to force their dispersion.
• Insurgent Attacks in Nigeria, Cameroon, and Chad – Numerous attacks were reported over the last week across the Nigeria-Cameroon border region, and in the vicinity of Lake Chad. These attacks followed the kidnap of at least 100 school girls from Nigeria’s Dapchi. The attacks have been credited to the Islamist insurgent group, Boko Haram. The motive for this spike in violence remains unclear. There have been additional reports of violence due to clashes between villagers and Fulani tribesmen in the area.
• Curfew Imposed in the Maldives – The Maldivian government imposed a curfew from 2230hrs until sunrise across the entire archipelago. The measure is intended to prevent the small anti-government protests and political gatherings which have been increasingly frequent over the past three months, particularly since President Yameen’s recent efforts to bring the judiciary and legislature under executive control. The detention of high-profile opposition leaders has fragmented the opposition to the grass-roots level. It is unlikely that this curfew will have any significant impact on the Maldives’s tourist resorts, however caution is advised after dark, particularly in the capital Malé.
• Attack in Burkina Faso – On the morning of 02 March, the French Embassy and Army Headquarters in Burkina Faso’s Ouagadougou came under attack. Four attackers have reportedly been killed at the Embassy and three at the Army Headquarters. There is no word on civilian casualties at the time of writing and while it is also unclear which group conducted the attack, Al Qaeda are present and active in the Sahel region. Al Qaeda have previously conduct high-profile attacks on foreign and government locations in Burkina Faso’s capital city.

What To Look Out For Next Week

• Anti-Corruption Protests in Tel Aviv – The recent scandal which has embroiled Israeli president Netanyahu is continuing to cause disruption across Israel. Opposition and anti-corruption protesters are due to hold further rallies in Tel Aviv on 03 March. Previous protests have attracted several thousand people, although violence has not been reported. Further revelations in the corruption case are likely to lead to protests growing in size. Police are unlikely to use excessive force against protesters; police support for the corruption charges demonstrates significant independence from the country’s political leadership.
• Italian Elections – Italians are set to go to the polls on 04 March in elections which could define or alter the future of the Eurozone and the European Union. Recent polling data suggests that the right-wing coalition is set to be the victor, but no party or political groups is predicted to gain the 40 per cent required to form a government. This could lead to some form of grand coalition. The election has seen the rise of the right, with former-Prime Minister Berlusconi and the Lega Nord coming to the fore.
• International Women’s Day – International Women’s Day, officially 08 March, is likely to be marked by rallies and protests on the weekends of 03-04 March, and 10-11 March. In light of the #metoo movement, and revelations of sexual crimes in many western countries, these marches should be expected to attract wider support and attendance than normal. Travellers should monitor local media to remain aware of any protests planned in their area and make appropriate plans to bypass any demonstrations. Such events are unlikely to become violent but may cause travel disruption.
• Sierra Leone General Election – The election due for 07 March will be the first of two rounds of voting involved in the election of the Sierra Leone president. The incumbent President Koroma is not standing, having reached his constitutionally mandated term limit. Candidates from five parties are competing for the position. Some controversy has surrounded the timing of the vote as it sits outside the five years and three months period stated in the constitution, however there is no indication that this will lead to significant unrest, or that it marks an effort to undermine democratic norms.
• ELN Unilateral Ceasefire – On 09 March, the Colombian rebel group, the National Liberation Army (ELN) are due to begin a unilateral ceasefire until 13 March. It is unclear whether this is the prelude to reopening peace negotiations, however the effectiveness of the ceasefire cannot be assured. Colombia is home to multiple insurgent groups, including cells which have fragmented away from centralised control. In combination with criminal gangs, these smaller groups are likely to continue violent actions throughout the ceasefire period.

Significant Dates and Events

• 03 March – Bulgaria Liberation Day
• 03 March – Malawi – Liberation Day
• 03 March – Israel – Anti-corruption march in Tel Aviv
• 03 March – Canada – International Women’s Day march in Toronto
• 03 March – United States – International Women’s Day march in Los Angeles
• 03 March – Indonesia – Women’s Rights march to be held in Jakarta
• 04 March – West Bank & Gaza – Israeli Borders to re-open after Purim holiday
• 04 March – El Salvador – General Election
• 04 March – France – Paris Semi-Marathon to cause road closures
• 05 March – Australia – Labour Day
• 05 March – Greece – Morning and evening rush-hour rail workers strike
• 06 March – Greece – 24 hour rail workers strike
• 06 March – Ghana – Independence Day
• 07 March – Sierra Leone – General Elections
• 07 March – Ecuador – Residents to protest toll road in Cuenca city
• 08 March – Worldwide – International Women’s Day
• 08 March – Uruguay – Women’s Rights march in Montevideo
• 08 March – France – International Women’s Day protests planned in Paris
• 08 March – Syria – Revolution Day
• 11 March – Lithuania – Restoration of Independence Day
• 11 March – Lesotho – Moshoeshoe’s Day
• 12 March – Australia – Canberra and Labour Day
• 12 March – Commonwealth – Commonwealth Day
• 12 March – Zambia – Youth Day
• 12 March – Belize – National Heroes and Benefactors Day
• 12 March – Mauritius – National Day
• 14 March – Albania – Summer Day
• 15-16 March – Belarus – Constitution Day
• 15-16 March – Hungary – Public holiday.

  Click the following link to download this report as a PDF:  Weekly Risk Roundup – Week 09 The Weekly Risk Roundup highlights significant events from the last week and what to look out for next week. Week 09 Weekly Risk Roundup was compiled by Solace Global’s in-house intelligence team.

Headlines From This Week

• Former-Prime Minister Sentenced in Bangladesh – Former-Prime Minister and current opposition leader in Bangladesh, Khaleda Zia, has been sentenced to five years in prison on corruption charges. Zia and her supporters have called the claims politically-motivated. Clashes occurred outside of the courthouse as the sentence came down on 08 February. One fatality has been reported as well as 25 injuries.

• Winter Olympics Begin – The Opening Ceremony for the 2018 Winter Olympics took place in Pyeongchang, South Korea on 09 February. The Games have been overshadowed by the threat of North Korea. However, Pyongyang has sent an Olympic delegation and has entered competitors in a series of different sports including women’s ice hockey, where North and South Korea will field a single, combined team. Some anti-Pyongyang protests have occurred at North Korean events, as well as before the Opening Ceremony.

• Deadly Earthquake in Taiwan – At least ten people were killed and 270 injured after a magnitude 6.4 earthquake struck north of the Taiwanese city of Hualien on 06 February. A series of significant aftershocks have hampered search and rescue attempts. At the latest count, seven people remain unaccounted for.

• Economic Instability – Global stock markets faced a volatile week. Both the Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P 500 fell by more than 1,000 points on 08 February, this followed similar losses on 05 February. These losses come amid recent stock market records. Share prices in Asia and Europe have faced similar volatility which have been attributed to concerns over inflation, the US budget deal, and a potential interest rate rise. The US government was briefly shutdown for the second time in month overnight on the 08-09 February, but US lawmakers eventually passed a budget to fund the government for two years. The budget will increase spending in a number of areas, including defence, where spending will rise nine per cent.

• US Airstrike in Syria – The United States conducted a series of air and artillery strikes in Deir al-Zour province, Syria overnight on 07 February, targeting government forces. Commentators have suggested that United States has drawn a line in the sand and wants to prevent pro-regime troops from recovering territory east of Euphrates River, which is currently held by US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces. Syrian President Assad has labelled the attack, which killed 100 of 500 advancing troops, a “brutal massacre”.

• Post-Election Violence in Guinea – At least seven people have been killed in post-election riots in the west African nation of Guinea. Local elections took place on 04 February and were the first since the end of a period of military rule; riots occurred amid electoral fraud allegations. Further unrest is expected as full results will only be released on 09 February.

What To Look Out For Next Week

• Lunar New Year – The Lunar New Year, commonly known as Chinese New Year, begins on 16 February. Celebrations occur not only in China but across East Asia with Vietnam, Japan, Korea, and Mongolia all celebrating their own traditions. Other New Year events should be expected in locations with significant populations of those of East Asian origin. Travellers should expect extensive travel delays in countries in East Asia as well as disruption of government and official affairs. 

• Munich Security Conference – The 54^th Munich Security Conference, a leading international forum on security policy, is set to take place between 16 and 18 February, at the Hotel Bayerischer Hof in Munich, Germany. More than 20 heads of state and government and around 75 foreign and defence ministers are expected to attend. 4,000 police officers are due to be deployed and several road closures will be put in place; trams will not stop at Karlsplatz. A rally has already been announced in opposition to the conference for 17 February, with around 4,000 activists set to attend. Police are also anticipating 20 more smaller gatherings. 

• ELN Three-Day National Blockade – The National Liberation Army (ELN) rebel group in Colombia are due to hold a 72-hour national blockade beginning at 0600 hours on 10 February, to protest the government’s suspension of peace negotiations. In western Colombia, especially coastal Choco province where the group is active, citizens are encouraged not to travel, as transport on roads and waterways will be halted. Some violence should be expected during this period.

Significant Dates and Events

• 09-14 February – Carnival celebrations (notably Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)
• 10 February – Fenkil Day (Commemorates the Battle of Massawa), Eritrea
• 11 February – Youth Day, Cameroon
• 11 February – Victory of Islamic Revolution Day, Iran
• 11 February – Foundation Day, Japan
• 12 February – Myanmar Unity Day
• 14 February – Anniversary of 2005 assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri (Lebanon)
• 15 February – Liberation Day, Afghanistan
• 16 February – Statehood Day, Serbia
• 16 February – Anniversary of Kim Jong-il’s birthday

  Click the following link to download this report as a PDF: Weekly Risk Roundup – Week 06 The Weekly Risk Roundup highlights significant events from the last week and what to look out for next week. Week 06 Weekly Risk Roundup was compiled by Solace Global’s in-house intelligence team.

Headlines From This Week

• A Further Terror Attack in Kabul – A suicide bombing in Kabul killed at least 95 people on 27 January. More than 150 others were wounded as Taliban attackers drove an ambulance laden with explosives past a police checkpoint in one of the most secure areas of the Afghan capital. This comes a week after the Inter-Continental Hotel in Kabul was also attacked by Taliban gunmen. 

• Dozens Feared Drowned off Libyan Coast – 90 migrants are feared dead after their boat capsized off the Libyan coast. Three survivors suggested that those who drowned were predominantly Pakistani. At least ten bodies have washed ashore in Libya at the time of writing. Overall this year, it has been reported that there have been 6,624 arrivals of migrants by sea to Europe, up from 5,983 in the same period of 2017. 

• Mass Unrest Across Russia – Protests were recorded in at least 100 locations across Russia on 28 January as citizens, led by anti-corruption campaigner Alexei Navalny, called for a boycott of elections in March 2018. Navalny was one of more than 250 protestors who were detained by police, but he was subsequently released. 

• Ex-Leader of Maldives to Contest Elections – Former President of the Maldives, Mohamed Nasheed, is to return to the country from exile to contest elections. This comes after the Supreme Court quashed his 2015 terrorism charges as being ‘politically motivated’. The Supreme Court’s decision saw opposition supporters take to the streets in celebration; two were arrested after clashes with police. The country became a democracy in 2008 but freedoms have been restricted since President Yameen took power in 2013. Yameen’s response is unclear at this time, though Maldives police have vowed to adhere to the ruling. 

• State of Emergency Declared in Ecuador – The Ecuadoran government declared a state of emergency in the cities of San Lorenzo and Eloy Alfaro following an improvised explosive device attack against a local police headquarters. There were no fatalities, but 14 officers were wounded, and the building was rendered unusable. Armed groups connected to drug cartels are believed to be responsible for the attack. 

• Nairobi Opposition Protests – Following a mock inauguration ceremony on 30 January for Raila Odinga, the primary opposition presidential candidate, his supporters have launched widespread protests in predominantly opposition-supporting areas of Kenya, Nairobi especially. A number of prominent opposition leaders have also been arrested by security forces in relation to the event, and three television networks have been taken off the air by the government for attempting to televise the inauguration, further aggravating protestors.

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What To Look Out For Next Week

• Winter Olympics to Begin – The 2018 Winter Olympics are scheduled to start in Pyeongchang, South Korea, on 09 February. While the presence of North Korea hangs over proceedings, it has athletes competing at the Games, making aggressive moves by Pyongyang unlikely. Travel disruption should be expected across South Korea. 

• Referendum in Ecuador – On 04 February, Ecuador will go to the polls to vote on a series of constitutional amendments, one of which reinstates term limits. This would make it impossible for the populist former President Rafael Correa to return to power. Correa has led the campaign against the proposed amendments which have been promoted by President Moreno, thought by many to be Correa’s handpicked successor. It was also believed Moreno would step aside when his term ended to allow Correa to return to power. Unrest is possible during the vote period. 

• Carnival – Carnival is celebrated across the world and marks a final major party before the Christian festival of Lent. Carnival is especially popular in the Americas. Crime rates spike in the lead up to, and during, Carnival festivities, particularly across Central and South America. The largest celebrations occur in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where the 2018 Carnival begins on 09 February and ends on 14 February, the day Lent begins.

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Significant Dates & Events

• 03 February – Public transport strikes planned from Helsinki airport
• 03 February – Anti-corruption protests scheduled in Tel Aviv
• 04 February – American football Super Bowl in Minneapolis
• 04 February – Costa Rican legislative and presidential elections
• 04 February – Planned protests against Macedonia’s naming in Athens
• 04 February – Anniversary of 1992 failed coup by Hugo Chávez (unrest a potential in Venezuela)
• 05 February – Algerian paramedics to strike
• 05 February – Public hospital workers strike across Haiti
• 06-11 February – Major cycling event in Dubai
• 09 February – Portuguese airline crew scheduled to start industrial action

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Click the following link to download this report as a PDF: Weekly Risk Roundup – Week 05 The Weekly Risk Roundup highlights significant events from the last week and what to look out for next week. Week 05 Weekly Risk Roundup was compiled by Solace Global’s in-house intelligence team.

Click link to Download PDF: Monthly Election Guide – February 2018 The Solace Global Election Guide is issued monthly in order to highlight the planned elections over the coming year and the threat of unrest or disruption in relation these events.  The February 2018 Monthly Election Guide was produced by Solace Global’s in-house intelligence team.

Headlines From This Week

• World Economic Forum – The World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, ends on 26 January. The event saw substantially less activist activity than was anticipated, with approximately 2,000 protesters demonstrating in Zurich. Approximately 20 protesters managed to breach the security cordon in the town of Davos itself, but they were dispersed peacefully by police.
• Turkish Incursion into Syria – Turkish forces, supported by militants from the Free Syrian Army launched an operation to clear Kurdish militia groups from the northern Syrian area of Afrin. The Turkish military objectives appear to remain limited, the assault was likely intended to enhance Turkey’s negotiating position with the US and other coalition partners engaged in the region against Islamic State.
• Major attacks in Jalalabad and Kabul – The Afghan branches of both the Taliban and Islamic State launched major attacks in Afghanistan. The Taliban conducted an explosives and small arms attack on the Kabul Intercontinental hotel on 20 January, which had recently handed its security measures to a private company. 42 people were killed, 17 of which were foreign nationals. The Islamic State attacked the Save the Children charity’s offices in Jalalabad on 24 January, resulting in two fatalities and leaving 12 wounded.
• US Government Shutdown – The US Government experienced a three-day shut down between 20 and 22 January. This resulted in a cessation of all “non-essential” services, with government employees responsible for the provision of these services asked to stay home without pay. A political compromise in the Senate led to a short-term funding bill to end the shutdown, but a further shutdown is likely in February.
• IED Attack in Benghazi – Two car bombs were detonated in a residential area of Benghazi on 23 January, the second blast was timed to target those who gathered to help victims of the first blast. A total of 33 people were killed, and 47 wounded. It is believed that the attack was carried out by a cell of Islamic State insurgents who remain in the city despite the organisation’s military defeat.
• Tsunami Warnings Across the West Coast of North America – An earthquake of approximately magnitude 8.2 struck south of Kodiak Island in Alaska, resulting in the issuing of tsunami warnings throughout the eastern pacific, particularly the US and Canada’s western seaboards. No damage was reported as a result of the quake due to the distance from major inhabited areas; waves measuring approximately 0.3m were reported, however, but had no impact as they occurred well offshore.

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What To Look Out For Next Week

• Australian Tennis Open – Australia is scheduled to hold its 2018 tennis finals on 27 – 28 January. Australia has suffered occasional, lone wolf, terror attacks in recent years, including an as-yet unclassified attack on a police officer on 26 January 2018. Travellers should expect high levels of security around the venue in Melbourne.
• Thaipusam Festival – The 2018 Thaipusam festival will be held in Malaysia on 31 January. Additional security measures should be expected around Hindu temple locations, and service provision is likely to be reduced due to business closures related to the holiday.
• Cost of Living Protests in Khartoum – The opposition-planned protests due to be held in Sudan’s capital, Khartoum, on 31 January are likely to result in significant disruption and possible violence. Sudanese security forces responded with force to small-scale, spontaneous, demonstrations over the month of January, and are likely to respond in a similar manner to more widespread incidents.

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Significant Dates & Events

• 27 January – Anti-corruption protests due in Tel Aviv, Israel
• 27 January – Opposition protests scheduled in Tirana, Albania
• 27 January – Anti-Trump marches planned in Washington DC
• 27-28 January – Extensive maintenance to disrupt Mumbai’s rail network
• 28 January – Finnish presidential elections
• 28 January – Cyprus presidential elections
• 28 January – Opposition protests scheduled in major cities throughout Russia
• 29 January – Italian high-speed rail workers to strike
• 30 January – Opposition and anti-corruption protests planned in Lima.
• 31 January – Anti-government protests in Khartoum, Sudan, due to increasing food costs
• 01 February – Air Do cancelled 26 flights from Japan due to a pilot shortage

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Click the following link to download this report as a PDF: Weekly Risk Roundup – Week 04 The Weekly Risk Roundup highlights significant events from the last week and what to look out for next week. Week 043 Weekly Risk Roundup was compiled by Solace Global’s in-house intelligence team.

Gulf of Guinea – Maritime Security Incidents

10-16 Jan 18: Product Tanker Hijacked Beninr. A tanker was hijacked off Benin on 10 January. The crew and vessel were released and reported safe in Lagos following contact between vessel owner and pirates.

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Indian Ocean – Maritime Security Incidents

20 Jan 18: 41 Somali Pirates Released. Indian authorities released 41 of 117 Somali pirates held in Indian jails. They were deported from Mumbai to Mogadishu, before being released to return home. There are no measure in place to monitor their actions after their release.

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South East Asia – Maritime Security Incidents

19 Jan 18: Abu Sayyaf Released Fishermen. The Philippine insurgent group, Abu Sayyaf, released two Indonesian fishermen which had been held hostage since November 2016. The release was allegedly in response to negotiations between the Philippine and Indonesian governments and Abu Sayyaf. It is unclear what, if any, concessions were made. 17 Jan 18: ReCAAP Capacity Building Summit. The regional anti-piracy group held a summit in Singapore to address cooperation and capacity building among member nations. Senior naval or coastguard personnel from 17 nations were present. 17 Jan 18: Attempted Attack on Tug Boat in Malacca States. A tug boat operating in the Malacca Straits reported an attempted boarding by an unspecified number of robbers. Vessel and crew were reported safe.

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Click link to Download PDF: Solace Global Maritime Security Snapshot – Week 03 A roundup of maritime security incidents – an easy to read format collating suspicious approaches, vessel attacks, boardings, hijacks and media reports. The week 03 Maritime Security Snapshot was compiled by Solace Global’s in-house intelligence team.