North P&I club’s local correspondents, Spica, reported an increase of incidents where the Indonesian Navy have detained vessels anchored in waters off the island of Bintan, furthest to the east in the Singapore Strait.
In fact, not only has the number of detentions increased, but the area in which detentions are conducted has also expanded.
The area north and east of Horsburgh Light is a popular place to anchor, where vessels historically have waited to enter shipyards, conduct crew changes, await next employment etc. However, these areas are within Indonesian territorial waters.
Spica advise that the Indonesian authorities consider illegal anchoring as a threat to national security, with vessels being detained as far away as 60nm from the coast line, believing they are not in Indonesian waters
It is recommended that vessels do not anchor in or around Indonesian territorial waters without confirmation from a local agent. In the event of any issues contact the Club or local correspondent immediately.
Shipowners and operators are reminded that activities such as crew change and cargo operations within Indonesian waters are only permitted for Indonesian shipping companies with Indonesian flagged vessels manned by Indonesian crew.
Concluding, the Indonesian navy have been strictly enforcing such laws and this has included the reported use of live ammunition towards commercial vessels.
