63 If armed security personnel are allowed on
board, the master, shipowner, operator and company should take into
account the possible escalation of violence and other risks. However,
the use of privately contracted armed security personnel on board
merchant ships and fishing vessels is a matter for flag State to determine
in consultation with shipowners, operators and companies. Masters,
shipowners, operators and companies should contact the flag State
and seek clarity of the national policy with respect to the carriage
of armed security personnel. All legal requirements of flag, port
and coastal States should be met.