Information Fusion Centre released its mid year report focusing on different maritime security categories for the period from January to June 2021.
Namely, IFC marked a total of 42 theft, robbery and piracy incidents during that period, a 35% decrease in comparison to 2020.
In total, 458 maritime security incidents were reported in the first half of 2021, a 13% decline compared to the same period last year.
Key observations
- Slow moving vessels with low freeboard (bulk carriers, tankers and tugs and barges) were the most targeted vessels in the Singapore Strait.
- Anchored container ships, tankers and bulk carriers were the most targeted vessels in Manila and Jakarta Anchorages.
- 13 incidents involving armed perpetrators with knives and metal objects were recorded, with 2 resulting in minor injuries.
- Incidents are consistent with known modus operandi of petty crime with minimal or no confrontation.
According to IFC, the top 3 areas of incidents are the Malacca Strait, waters off Sri Lanka and Hong Kong.
What is more, it was noted increased smuggling of drugs, domestic products and tobacco likely due to COVID-19 socio-economic restrictions.
Usage of small boats, especially fishing vessels, prevalent in contraband smuggling, perpetrators increasingly creative in adopting new methods e.g. setting packages adrift.
Concluding, IFC expects an increase in incidents due to higher demand during major festivities in the second half of the year.
EXPLORE IFC MID YEAR REPORT HERE
