Togo recently examined and passed a bill to set up a national coastguard unit, with the aim of protecting the country’s maritime waters more effectively.
This task force will ensure permanent surveillance of the country’s maritime space and better organization of the State’s civil action at sea. It will also focus on improving coordination between administrations and cooperation with neighboring countries.
Last May, the country adopted procedures enabling it to arrest and prosecute vessels and individuals involved in criminal acts at sea. They also support Togo’s actions against piracy and help it to meet the new challenges in terms of security in the maritime sector.
Togo began strengthening its judicial system against maritime piracy several years ago, and after the 2016 maritime security summit, the country stepped up its efforts to protect its waters. In July 2021, an unprecedented trial was held in Lomé, where 9 people were tried and convicted for acts of piracy.
