A total of nine incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships, including seven actual and two attempted incidents, were reported in October 2017, according to ReCAAP ISC’s monthly report. The number of incidents in October increased slightly compared to the same period in 2016, while the total number of incidents during January-October 2017 is the lowest among the 10-year reporting period of January-October 2008-2017.
Highlights for October 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.
- There was no incident involving the hijacking of ship for theft of oil cargo reported.
- However, there has been an increase in the number of incidents occurred on board ships while underway in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore (SOMS).
Compared to October 2016, the total number of incidents reported in October 2017 has increased, due to the occurrence of two attempted incidents reported in October 2017. In October 2016, a total of seven incidents (all actual incidents) were reported.
During January-October 2017, the number of incidents reported was the lowest among the 10-year reporting period. Namely:
- A total of 60 incidents were reported, of which 51 were actual incidents and nine were attempted incidents.
- Compared to January-October 2016, there was a 9% decrease; A total of 66 incidents were reported during January-October 2016.
- Compared to January-October 2015, there was a 67% decrease; 184 incidents were reported during January-October 2015.
The improvement during January-October 2017 was attributed to, amongst other factors, improvement of the situation at certain ports and anchorages in Malaysia, India, Indonesia and Vietnam.
While the overall situation during January-October 2017 has improved, there was an increase in the number of incidents reported at ports and anchorages in Bangladesh (Chittagong), Philippines (Manila and Batangas); and on board ships while underway in the 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 enhance vigilance especially during hours of darkness 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:
