Maritime Security Report: 17–23 November 2025
- Palaemon Maritime
- Nov 24
- 3 min read
Drone attacks on Izmail Port and attempted boarding in Lagos highlight continued multi-regional threats
Two major maritime security incidents were recorded this week across Europe and West Africa, reflecting ongoing risks from both state-level conflict spillover and opportunistic criminal activity. Operators in affected regions should maintain strict vigilance, update crew awareness, and ensure BMP-MS and local best practices are enforced.
Executive Summary
This week saw two significant incidents in Europe and West Africa. In Izmail Port, multiple drones struck port infrastructure and nearby vessels, igniting a laden LPG tanker and causing civilian casualties. In Lagos, seven suspects attempted to board a berthed cargo vessel using improvised equipment before being intercepted by police.
Vessels transiting these regions should apply BMP-MS, strengthen access control while alongside, and conduct regular deck patrols to deter small-boat approaches.
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Incident Breakdown
🇪🇺 Europe — Drone Strikes on Izmail Port
17 November 2025
According to page 4 of the report, multiple drones struck Ukraine’s Izmail Port, damaging port infrastructure and several civilian vessels, including a laden LPG tanker that was set ablaze.
The tanker fire was later extinguished
All 16 crew were reported safe
Three Ukrainian civilians were killed
Residents of Plauru (Romania) were evacuated due to cross-border risk
The incident highlights the continued vulnerability of Danube River logistics to long-range UAV attacks as part of the wider Russia–Ukraine conflict.
🌍 West Africa — Attempted Boarding at Lagos Port
18 November 2025
As detailed on page 5, a Liberia-flagged cargo vessel berthed at Berth 12, Lagos Port was targeted by seven individuals attempting to board using an extended bamboo pole.
Suspects arrived on a small speedboat
Tools and rope were discovered onboard, indicating intent to steal stores
All seven individuals were detained by police and transferred to the Port CID
This continues a pattern of opportunistic theft attempts at Nigerian ports, where criminals exploit poorly lit berth areas and predictable ship routines.
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Security Analysis
While fewer incidents were recorded this week than in previous reporting periods, the nature of the events remains high-impact:
Drone warfare continues to disrupt key Ukrainian grain and fuel export hubs
Criminal boarding attempts persist in West African ports, where local gangs continue to target berthed or slow-moving vessels
Crew safety & access control remain essential, particularly at night or during cargo operations
Operators should review standing plans and ensure that bridge, deck, and gangway watches are adequately resourced.
Operational Guidance
For Europe (Izmail / Danube region)
Monitor airspace alerts, port authority updates, and cross-border advisories
Keep crew familiar with UAV response procedures
Increase readiness levels during night hours when most strikes occur
For West Africa (Lagos / Nigerian ports)
Maintain strict access control while alongside
Increase deck patrols during hours of darkness
Coordinate with port security regarding suspicious small craft movements
Ensure stores, paint locker, and bosun’s store remain locked and monitored
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