The ReCAAP ISC issued an alert on the continued occurrence of incidents of sea robbery onboard ships while underway in the Singapore Strait (SS), and warns of the possibility of further incidents.
Between 1 January and 3 February 2025, a total of 11 incidents of sea robbery occurred onboard ships while underway in the eastbound lane of the Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS) in the SS. Among these 11 incidents, there were reports of incidents occurring within a short interval – two incidents each in the early morning of 26 January and 3 February, and two incidents on the intervening night of 28 – 29 January.
All 11 incidents took place in close proximity to each other off Pulau Cula and Helen Mar Reef, onboard ships while transiting the Phillip Channel. Engine spares were stolen in seven incidents, and nothing was stolen in four incidents.
Of the 11 reported incidents, four involved perpetrators carrying guns or gun-like objects, five involved perpetrators carrying knives, and no information is available for the other two incidents. The crew members were not injured, except for one incident where the Chief Engineer’s hands were tied.
The ReCAAP ISC is concerned with the increase in the number of incidents in the Singapore Strait, which has almost tripled compared to the corresponding period of the previous year (1 January – 3 February 2024), where four incidents were reported.
- The Centre urges the littoral States to increase patrols/surveillance in their respective waters, respond promptly to incidents reported by ships, strengthen coordination, and promote information sharing on incidents and criminal groups involved to arrest the perpetrators.
- Ships are advised to intensify vigilance and maintain a sharp lookout while transiting the areas of concern, particularly during hours of darkness, adopt preventive measures recommended in the Regional Guide 2 to Counter Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia, and report all incidents immediately.
Location of Incidents in the Singapore Strait (1 January – 3 February 2025)
Between 1 January and 3 February 2025, ReCAAP Focal Points reported to the Centre 11 incidents involving ships underway in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore. All 11 incidents occurred in the Singapore Strait.
