According to ReCAAP ISC’s classification, a CAT 4 incident is considered the “least significant” in nature. In such incidents, the perpetrators are not armed, and the crew members are not injured.
Reassessing Threat Level
The sustained military operations conducted by the Philippine Government in the regions of Zamboanga, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi have successfully dismantled the support infrastructure of the Abu Sayaaf Group (ASG). This has significantly increased the likelihood of the group’s end through surrenders, arrests, and neutralizations of its members.
In light of these developments, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), in coordination with relevant stakeholders and counterparts involved in the maritime security of the Sulu-Celebes Seas, has reassessed the prevailing threat level. Based on this reassessment, they have recommended a further downgrading of the threat level for ‘Abduction of crew for ransom in the Sulu-Celebes Seas’ from ‘MODERATE LOW’ to ‘LOW’. This ‘LOW’ threat level is defined as a situation where ‘No information or monitored activities suggest an impending attack; hence, incidents are not expected to occur’.
Recommendations Given
Ship masters and crew are reminded of their responsibility to report all incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships to the nearest coastal State and their flag State. For reporting contact details in Asia, they should refer to the Poster produced by the ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre (ISC).
Furthermore, to mitigate risks, ship masters and crew are urged to exercise vigilance and adopt appropriate preventive measures as outlined in the Regional Guide 2 to Counter Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships in Asia, also produced by the ReCAAP ISC. These resources provide essential guidance for enhancing the safety and security of vessels transiting the region.
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Source: Safety4sea
