Pirate deterrent product makers Guardian Maritime and Guardian Barriers will be acquired by cash shell Nu-Oil and Gas – following support from Shakespeare Martineau’s Birmingham office.

Nu-Oil and Gas have also confirmed it intends to re-list on the main market of the London Stock Exchange once the acquisition has been completed, which is expected in January 2022 – allowing public market investors to gain exposure to maritime security companies and the global fight against piracy.

Following admission, the company will change its name to Guardian Global Security plc.

Full service law firm Shakespeare Martineau acted on behalf of the majority shareholders of Guardian Maritime and Guardian Barriers on their sale.

Corporate partner Keith Spedding, who led the deal, said: “We are delighted to have assisted Guardian’s shareholders during this deal. Following the acquisition and subsequent admission, the newly-formed Guardian Global Security plc will have unparalleled market-leading knowledge, experience and contacts in the maritime sector and unique access to expansion opportunities.”

The patent-protected Guardian system is used to visually deter pirates from maritime vessels. As far as the company is aware, no vessel fitted technology has been breached, including five that have been subjected to attempted attacks.

David Stevens, co-founder of the companies, said: “We were delighted with the support provided by Keith Spedding and Gweni Rees-Evans. With their experience, they were able to guide us through a complex process.”