Regulations in relation to weapons/armed guards on ships in Egyptian waters

The Egyptian government has issued regulations prohibiting weapons/armed guards on board ships calling at Egyptian ports or transiting the Suez Canal.

With reference to ships calling at Egyptian ports, the regulations provide that any weapons must be locked up in a safe compartment on board the ship and the master must provide a certificate to the pilot notifying them that there are weapons on board and confirming that the weapons will be delivered to the port police force once the ship berths, to be returned when the ship is about to depart port.  Non-compliant ships will not be allowed to enter Egyptian ports.

Ships transiting the Suez Canal must deliver any weapons to the port police force upon arrival at the canal, with the weapons to be returned once the transit is complete.

A breach of the regulations could lead to the arrest of the ship, master, crew and those holding weapons.

Members are encouraged to liaise with their local agents and advisors to ensure they comply with the latest requirements.