One actual incident of armed robbery against ships (CAT 3 incident) in Asia was reported to ReCAAP ISC, between 7th – 13th May 2024.
Area Of Concern
The ReCAAP ISC advises ships to continue to exercise enhanced vigilance when anchored or berthed at ports and anchorages, and transiting areas of concern, including the Straits of Malacca and Singapore; and the littoral States to increase patrols and enforcement in these areas.
Re-Assessment and Downgrading Threat Level
The efforts by the Philippine Government in Zamboanga, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi through the conduct of continuous military operations led to the dismantling of the support base and neutralising the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in Sulu archipelago. Against this backdrop, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), coordinated with other stakeholders and counterparts that have vital involvement in the maritime security of the vessel reviewed the threat situation and recommended further downgrading the threat level of ‘Abduction from ‘MODERATE’ to ‘MODERATE LOW’, which implies that ‘Incidents are unlikely to occur due to perpetrators’ perceived lack of capability to orchestrate an attack. Nevertheless, minimal damages are expected to the vessel and crew in case of an attack’.
Updating Advisory
- With downgrading of the threat on the ‘Abduction of Crew for ransom in the SuluCelebes seas by the PCG, ReCAAP ISC have updated its Advisory for ships to “exercise vigilance & adopt necessary preventive measures while transiting the area”.
- For ships transiting the area, the ship masters and crew are strongly encouraged to exercise extra vigilance and report all incidents immediately to
the Operation Centres of the Philippines and Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) of Malaysia.
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Source: Safety4sea
