ABSTRACT
The question of jurisdiction 1 in relation to the construction and control over oil rigs and people on board in different maritime zones is an important question in international law. Who is authorised in international law to erect or construct oil rigs in different parts of the sea including the high seas? Who has control of the jurisdiction over oil platforms and the activities of people on board beyond a States' territorial sea? There are usually a number of people on oil rigs who might become involved in crime such as assault, theft or even homicide. In addition, certain activities, such as the design and engineering work, can lead to property loss as well as personal injury and the death of employees. Therefore, the issue of what is the applicable criminal and civil law on the installation can, in some cases, be a matter of international dispute.
