Over the past week, from July 22-28, 2025, no incidents of piracy or armed robbery against ships in Asia were reported to the ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre (ISC).
Current Situation and Advisory
While no incidents were reported this week, ReCAAP ISC strongly advises all vessels to maintain heightened vigilance and a sharp lookout when transiting or anchoring in areas of concern. It also urges immediate reporting of all incidents to the nearest coastal State. Coastal States, in turn, are called upon to increase patrols and enforcement in these areas.
Abduction of Crew in Sulu-Celebes Seas: Threat Level Downgraded
For the fifth consecutive year, there has been no report of abduction of crew in the Sulu-Celebes Seas and waters off Eastern Sabah. The last such incident occurred on January 17, 2020.
- Threat Level Downgrade: In January 2025, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), in coordination with various stakeholders, further downgraded the threat level of ‘Abduction of crew for ransom in the Sulu-Celebes Seas’ to ‘LOW’. This signifies that “No information or monitored activities suggest an impending attack; hence incidents are not expected to occur.”
- ReCAAP ISC Advisory (February 14, 2025): Despite the downgraded threat level, ReCAAP ISC, in its advisory on February 14, 2025, recommended that ships “exercise vigilance when transiting the Sulu-Celebes Seas and report incidents to the Operation Centres of the Philippines and Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM).” Vessels are also advised to maintain communication with relevant authorities while in the area.
Recommendations for Mariners
ReCAAP ISC provides crucial recommendations to ship masters and crew for enhanced maritime security:
- Report All Incidents: Immediately report all incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships to the nearest coastal State and flag State. Mariners can refer to the “Poster on the Contact Details for Reporting of Incidents of Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia” for relevant contact information.
- Exercise Vigilance and Preventive Measures: Maintain vigilance and adopt appropriate preventive measures by referencing the “Regional Guide 2 to Counter Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships in Asia,” both of which are resources produced by the ReCAAP ISC.
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Source: Safety4sea
