Welcome to the first edition of our joint UK P&I and UK Defence Club review for our South African Members. In this review, one of our correspondents gives an overview of stowaway problems, with specific reference to local South African issues. The question of armed guards on-board ship as a counter to piracy is also reviewed on page 7. Whilst not prohibited by P&I cover per se, some difficult issues arise from the implementation of armed guards in respect of firearms regulations.