A total of nine incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships were reported in November 2017, of which seven were actual incidents and two were attempted incidents, according to ReCAAP ISC’s monthly report. The situation in Asia continues to improve, as the total number of incidents during January-November 2017 is the lowest among the 10-year reporting period.
Highlights for November 2017
- There was no actual or attempted incident involving the abduction of crew from ships reported in the Sulu-Celebes Sea and waters off Eastern Sabah in November 2017.
- However, of concern was the occurrence of an incident of theft of oil cargo on 22 Nov 17.
- There was an increase in the number of incidents occurred on board ships while anchored in the South China Sea (SCS).
Compared to November 2016, the total number of incidents reported in November 2017 has decreased. A total of 12 incidents were reported in November 2016 compared to nine incidents reported in November 2017.
During January-November 2017, the number of incidents reported was the lowest among the 10-year reporting period. In particular:
- A total of 71 incidents were reported, of which 60 were actual incidents and 11 were attempted incidents.
- Compared to January- November 2016, there was a 9% decrease in the total number of incidents; and
- Compared to January-November 2015, there has been a 63% decrease.
The improvement of the situation during January-November 2017 was at ports and anchorages in India, Indonesia, Malaysia and Vietnam compared to the same period in 2016. However, there was an increase in the number of incidents reported at ports and anchorages in Bangladesh (Chittagong), Philippines (Manila and Batangas) and on ships while underway in the South China Sea (SCS) and Straits of Malacca and Singapore (SOMS) compared to the same period in 2016.
The ReCAAP ISC advises all ships transiting the areas of concern to exercise enhanced vigilance during hours of darkness, maintain strict look-out for suspicious approach by boats; and report all incidents to the nearest coastal State and flag State immediately. It also reiterates the need for collective efforts and shared responsibility among ReCAAP Focal Points, regional authorities and the shipping industry in addressing the situation of piracy and armed robbery against ships in Asia.
Explore more by reading the full report:
