The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and Witherby Publishing Group have released a new edition of ‘Drug Trafficking and Drug Abuse On Board Ship – Guidelines for Owners and Masters on Preparation, Prevention, Protection and Response’.
This publication provides guidance on how to combat drug trafficking at sea and how to recognise the signs of drug use and dependence among crew members. Considered the leading industry publication on the topic, this 2025 – 2026 edition has been fully updated by industry experts to assist shipping companies, Masters and officers to prepare for, prevent, protect against and respond to drug trafficking and drug abuse at sea.
The new edition has been fully updated and revised to reflect the latest industry and regulatory guidance. Key updates include emerging drug trafficking trends and high-profile seizures, enhanced physical security measures both in port and on board, recommended training at ship and corporate levels, detailed search procedures and concealment methods, cyber security risks such as social engineering and guidance on responding to drug-related incidents on board, including reporting protocols.
Drug trafficking is a huge criminal enterprise, involving enormous sums of money and a complex international network of often violent and highly organised cartels and gangs. Commercial shipping is sometimes unknowingly exploited as a means of transporting illicit substances, and the shipping industry must stay vigilant, protect against misuse and remain aware that failure to do so can result in severe penalties or imprisonment for both companies and crew. The latest guidelines, developed in consultation with global authorities, aim to help shipping companies and crew identify and address drug trafficking and onboard drug abuse. The edition also covers evolving threats such as cyber risks and provides practical, up-to-date guidance to support prevention and response efforts.
The title is available online at shop.witherbys.com and other maritime book stockists.
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