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The owner of (one of?) the boats held last November was on FBN the other day, saying that if armed security were implemented there'd be a two-tiered system through the strait, comprised of haves and have-nots (based on who could afford it). He listed this as a reason not to have armed officers.

To that I said, "and?" but he wasn't challenged on it. What is the story!? Would armed security have cost him more than the million or so he paid in ransom to get his ship back?

I do not understand why these ships aren't armed. It makes no sense at all.

>>> I do not understand why these ships aren’t armed. It makes no sense at all. <<<<<

Because every port you visit has different laws and customs pertaining to weapons (guns).

The laws should be changed, but that’s the way it is.

Even recreational sailors who visit Mexico and the Caribbean have problems (or concerns) about being boarded by the local robbers. But there is equal concern about being boarded and searched (for weapons) by local customs officials.

So people (recreational sailors) think about “weapons” like spearguns, flare guns, cast iron skillets, heavy flashlights, etc.

Commercial vessel crews have similar problems and responses.

The owner of (one of?) the boats held last November was on FBN the other day, saying that if armed security were implemented there'd be a two-tiered system through the strait, comprised of haves and have-nots (based on who could afford it). He listed this as a reason not to have armed officers. To that I said, "and?" but he wasn't challenged on it. What is the story!? Would armed security have cost him more than the million or so he paid in ransom to get his ship back? I do not understand why these ships aren't armed. It makes no sense at all.

I don't understand it either. Compared to value of cargo and ships operations cost it wouldn't add that much to the freight bill. I would counter the owner though and say this to him. If you were a thief and you knew that one of every two houses on a street was armed without specif knowledge of who was and who wasn't would you attempt it? If they aren't going to arm then they need better security like hatches dogged from the inside only and the Bridge accessible from inside only as well while underway.

I'm really surprised the companies underwriting the cargo and ships aren't insisting on arming them. The only reason I can possibly see is some nations not allowing an armed ship entrance into port. No problem don't enter their port with goods and then see how quick they come around.