The ReCAAP ISC says that 59 incidents have been reported during the period from January to September 2016, highlighting a sharp decrease of 65% compared to last year. ReCAAP ISC notes that the improvement of the piracy status in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore has contributed to the overall reported number as only 2 incidents have reported this year, compared to 96 in 2015.
ReCAAP ISC has created the following infographic which depicts the piracy and armed robbery situation during the first semester of 2016 (please click on the image for a larger view)
ReCAAP ISC recommends the following best practices
- Vigilance of crew
- Immediate operational responses – arrest
- Effective and efficient information sharing and operational response among littoral States
- Collaboration between shipping industry with authorities
ReCAAP ISC warns that despite the overall improvement, there is no room for complacency. Focus must be shed to concern over incidents involving the abduction of crew and incidents occurred at certain ports and anchorages. ReCAAP ISC advises authorities to step up surveillance, conduct patrols and initiate timely operational responses. Furthermore, industry to exercise enhanced vigilance and adopt best practices as recommended in the ‘Regional Guide to counter piracy and armed robbery against ships in Asia‘
