Germany to tighten rules on security firms

Michael Karschau, of Grimme & Partner, reports on a new German law on armed guards used to protect against piracy

Germany passed a new law regulating the use of private maritime security companies (PMSCs) on 13 December 2012. From 1 December 2013 PMSCs or maritime security companies (MarSec companies) will have to be accredited to German government if they intend to guard German-flagged vessels. Several issues remain unclear.