- Five incidents of armed robbery were reported in the Singapore Strait from 25 February to 3 March 2025.
- The incidents involved intrusions onboard ships, with engine spares stolen in two cases and no theft in the others.
- ReCAAP ISC issued an alert due to a sharp rise in incidents in the Strait of Malacca and Singapore (SOMS).
- Threat level for crew abduction in the Sulu-Celebes Seas has been downgraded to “low” due to successful security operations.
The ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre (ISC) reported five incidents of armed robbery against ships in the Singapore Strait between 25 February and 3 March 2025. These incidents, categorized as four CAT 3 (moderate severity) and one CAT 4 (low severity), all took place while vessels were underway in the eastbound lane of the Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS).
One crew member sustained injuries in one of the incidents. While two ships reported engine spares stolen, the remaining three incidents did not involve any theft.
Rising Security Concerns in SOMS
The latest incidents contribute to a total of 22 reported cases in the Strait of Malacca and Singapore (SOMS) from 1 January to 3 March 2025— a significant increase compared to six cases during the same period in 2024. In response to this upward trend, ReCAAP ISC issued an Incident Alert on 28 February 2025, warning the maritime community of continued risks in the area.
Ships transiting these waters are urged to enhance vigilance, maintain strict lookouts, and promptly report any incidents to the nearest coastal authorities. Additionally, ReCAAP ISC has called on littoral states to strengthen patrols, enhance surveillance, and share intelligence to combat criminal activities effectively.
Threat Level Downgraded for Crew Abduction in Sulu-Celebes Seas
Successful Military Operations Weaken Abu Sayyaf Group
Security measures in the Sulu-Celebes Seas and eastern Sabah have led to a significant reduction in the threat of crew abductions. The Philippine military’s continued efforts in dismantling the Abu Sayyaf Group’s (ASG) support networks have resulted in arrests, surrenders, and neutralization of key members.
As a result, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), in coordination with maritime security stakeholders, reassessed the situation and downgraded the threat level for crew abductions from “moderate low” to “low.” This means there are no indications of imminent attacks or monitored activities suggesting potential threats.
Advisory Update for Vessels in Sulu-Celebes Seas
Following this security improvement, ReCAAP ISC updated its advisory on 14 February 2025. While the risk has decreased, ships are still advised to exercise caution when transiting the Sulu-Celebes Seas. Vessel operators should maintain communication with relevant authorities, including the Philippine Operations Centres and the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM), to ensure safe passage through the area.
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Source: Safety4sea
