- Windward shares are up more than 128% in the past year
London-listed maritime artificial intelligence company Windward has unveiled a contract signed last year with international police network Interpol.
Windward told investors on Wednesday that it will assist Interpol – the International Criminal Police Organization – in their mission of ‘facilitating a safe maritime environment’.
The group said its AI tools will provide information and insights to help identify, track and prevent criminal activities such as illegal trafficking, human smuggling and illegal fishing.
Partnership: Windward won a contract with Interpol last year
Windward shares rose by 6.67 percent or 7.50 cents to 120 cents on Wednesday, after an increase of more than 128 percent in the past year.
Windward said its technology can provide insights into “vessel behavior” and ownership structures and predict in real time which ships are likely to be involved in illegal activities.
Ami Daniel, CEO of Windward, said: “Our oceans are vast and that is often exploited by bad actors to evade authorities. We are honored that Interpol has chosen Windward’s solution to support their fight against global maritime crime.
“This is a testament to the excellence of our advanced AI capabilities, which will have a significant impact in tackling the critical problem of maritime crime and making the seas safer for global trade.”
Windward added: “Through this partnership, Interpol will leverage Windward’s insights to advance investigations into suspected vessels, activities and areas of interest worldwide.
‘Windward’s platform will enhance Interpol’s capacity to detect and disrupt illicit maritime activities, including smuggling, piracy, IUU, human trafficking and the transportation of illicit goods, to create a safer maritime environment essential for a smooth flow of world trade.’
Hasan Khajah, Coordinator of Interpol’s Maritime Security Unit, said: ‘Tackling maritime crime has become a crucial mission for law enforcement agencies and Interpol. We work with local, regional and international stakeholders to reduce maritime crime worldwide and improve maritime governance.”
Risks to shipping are escalating due to repeated drone and missile attacks in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait by the Iran-aligned Houthis since November. US and British forces have responded with several attacks on Houthi facilities, but have so far failed to stop the attacks.