The Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia (ReCAAP ISC) reported five incidents of armed robbery against ships in Asia over the past week. These included three Category 3 (CAT 3) incidents and two Category 4 (CAT 4) incidents.
Incident Breakdown
- One incident occurred on a tanker anchored at OPL Kakinada, India
- Four incidents took place onboard vessels underway in the eastbound lane of the Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS) in the Singapore Strait (SS)
- No crew injuries were reported
Concern Over Rising Incidents in the Singapore Strait
With the latest incidents, a total of 11 incidents have occurred in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore (SOMS) since January 2025. In response, ReCAAP ISC issued an Incident Alert on 3 February 2025, warning of the increased threat in the region.
Response and Recommendations
- Littoral States (Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia) urged to increase patrols and surveillance
- Improved coordination and information-sharing among maritime authorities to apprehend perpetrators
- Ship crews advised to remain vigilant and immediately report incidents
Threat Level Downgraded in Sulu-Celebes Seas
Efforts by the Philippine Government and Coast Guard have weakened the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in the Sulu archipelago. Due to reduced risk, the threat level for ‘Abduction of Crew for Ransom’ in the Sulu-Celebes Seas has been downgraded from ‘MODERATE’ to ‘MODERATE LOW’.
Updated Advisory for Ships
- Ships transiting the area should exercise vigilance and adopt preventive measures
- Report all incidents immediately to:
- Philippine Operation Centres
- Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) of Malaysia
- Reference ReCAAP ISC’s Regional Guide 2 for counter-piracy measures
With continued monitoring and cooperation, authorities aim to curb piracy and maritime security threats in the region.
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Source: SAFETY4SEA
