APM terminals affected by cyberattack

Manama : APM Terminals, which operates Khalifa bin Salman Port, had been hit by a large-scale cyberattack on its systems, including the port’s operating company, Ports and Maritime Affairs Undersecretary at the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications, Ali Al-Majid, said yesterday.

Accordingly, the operator of Khalifa bin Salman Port has taken all precautionary measures and procedures and activated the alternative contingency plan to deal with the current situation, he added.

The undersecretary affirmed that the port’s operator had been instructed to take all necessary measures to ensure the continuity of the operations and services at the port.

Based on that, the operating company has coordinated with the Ports and Maritime Affairs, and set up a work team to conduct the port’s operations, according to the alternative plan, he said, adding that work is normal at all berths regarding the reception of ships carrying general cargo and container ships, as well as the handling of cargo to and from those ships.

He indicated that the port’s operating company is working at full capacity to unload the containers and receive goods, noting that more than 100 containers are expected to be unloaded at the port yesterday, and 200 containers will be delivered to the local market.

Work is also underway to increase the number of containers as much as possible, he said.

The Ports and Maritime Affairs asserted that the APM Terminals has mobilised all its efforts to find suitable solutions to re-activate all systems related to the operation of ports.

The Ports and Maritime Affairs commended the efforts exerted by the port’s operating company and all the relevant government departments, especially the Customs Affairs for their great support.

It also called on all traders and those dealing with Khalifa bin Salman Port to show understanding and cooperate with the operating company.