- Singapore Strait Sees Continued Spike in Ship Robberies.
- Belawan Anchorage Incident Involves Tied-Up Watchmen.
- 94 Incidents Reported in SOMS Since January 2025.
Between July 8 and 14, 2025, the ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre (ISC) reported five incidents of armed robbery targeting ships. This included one incident classified as Category 2 (CAT 2) and four incidents categorised as Category 4 (CAT 4) across Asian waters, reports Safety4Sea.
Singapore Strait Continues to Be a Hotspot for Armed Robbery
All four CAT 4 incidents took place on ships navigating the eastbound lane of the Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS) in the Singapore Strait (SS). Thankfully, no crew members were harmed during these events. However, in three of the incidents, thieves made off with ship stores, engine spare parts, and personal belongings, while in the other two incidents saw no theft was reported.
The total number of incidents reported in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore (SOMS) has now reached 94 since January 2025. The ReCAAP ISC continues to urge: “Ships to exercise enhanced vigilance when transiting SOMS and the littoral States to increase patrols and enforcement in these areas.”
CAT 2 Incident at Belawan Port Anchorage, Indonesia
A CAT 2 incident occurred on a container ship that was anchored at Belawan Port Anchorage in Indonesia. During this event, the ship’s watchmen were restrained, and some items were stolen. This situation underscores the ongoing dangers that ships face, even when they’re at anchor.
Sulu-Celebes Seas Remain Stable with No Abductions Reported
For the fifth year in a row, there have been no reports of crew abductions in the Sulu-Celebes Seas and the waters off Eastern Sabah. The last incident recorded was on January 17, 2020.
In response to ongoing stability, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), in coordination with stakeholders, has officially lowered the threat level. According to the update: “The threat level of ‘Abduction of crew for ransom in the Sulu-Celebes Seas’ [was downgraded] to ‘LOW’, meaning ‘No information or monitored activities suggest an impending attack; hence incidents are not expected to occur’.”
ReCAAP ISC Advisory and Recommendations
In its 14 February 2025 advisory, the ReCAAP ISC emphasised: “Exercise vigilance when transiting the Sulu-Celebes Seas and report incidents to the Operation Centres of the Philippines and Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM).” “Also, to maintain communication with the relevant authorities when transiting the area.”
Shipmasters and their crews are strongly encouraged to:
- Report any incidents of piracy and armed robbery to the nearest coastal and flag States.
- Check out the Poster on the Contact Details for Reporting Incidents of Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia.
- Adhere to the guidance provided in the Regional Guide 2 to Counter Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships in Asia, both of which are published by ReCAAP ISC.
2025 Sees Sharp Rise in Armed Robbery Incidents
According to the ReCAAP ISC’s Half Yearly Report for 2025, which covers January to June, there has been a staggering 83% increase in reported incidents compared to the same timeframe in 2024. This significant uptick highlights the urgent need for heightened vigilance and a coordinated response among regional stakeholders.
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Source: Safety4Sea
