Singapore’s Information Fusion Centre (IFC) provides an update concerning the piracy incidents and robbery threats taking place in the Singapore Strait, now focusing on the incidents between July to November 30, 2020.
The most recent infographic presents an increase on the sea theft incidents and the attempted actions. Specifically, this update reports of:
- one sea theft
- two attempted actions.
To remind, the previous report issued by the IFC, reported of seven sea thefts and eight attempted actions.
According to the Infographic below, the key facts are that:
- Most incidents occurred within hours of darkness between 2300H to 0300H
- Majority of targeted vessels (>90%) were east bound
- Incidents occurred in east-bound lane of Traffic Separation Scheme in Singapore Strait, North of Batam and Binta.
Accordingly, it is highlighted that in the most cases, the perpetrators are usually in a group of 4 to 6, using small boats. In addition, the attackers aim for slow-moving vessels with low freeboard and are non-confrontational.
The Centre notes that concerning attacks against tankers and bulk carriers:
- the perpetrators could be armed with weapons like knives and steel bars;
- usually target ship’s engine parts and stores;
- same group of perpetrators may target few vessels in succession, in the same night.
In the meantime, concerning tugs and barges, the Centre states that the perpetrators are usually unarmed and go for the ship’s stores.
Recommendations:
IFC advises to adopt ship protection measures according to the Regional Guide to Counter Piracy and Armed Robbery Against ships in Asia.
See also:
- IFC report shows 867 incidents for first half of 2020
- IFC: What to know about perpetrators attacking vessels in Singapore Strait
- IFC: Increased theft, robbery and piracy incidents at Manila and Batangas Bay
