ReCAAP ISC Reports Two Armed Robbery Incidents In The Singapore Strait

Over the past week, two incidents of armed robbery against ships were reported to the ReCAAP ISC in the Singapore Strait, specifically off Pulau Cula, Indonesia. Both incidents occurred while bulk carriers were underway, with no injuries to crew members.

Incident 1 (22 April 2025)

• Location: 8.8 nm off Pulau Cula, Indonesia, in the eastbound lane of the Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS)

• Time: 22 April 2025 at 2300 hrs

• Perpetrators: 4

• Weapons: Knives

• Items Stolen: Engine spare parts and personal belongings

• Significance Level: CAT 2

• Crew Treatment: Tied up

Incident 2 (25 April 2025)

• Location: 3.5 nm off Pulau Cula, Indonesia

• Time: 25 April 2025 at 0300 hrs

• Perpetrators: Unknown

• Weapons: Not stated

• Items Stolen: Generator spare parts

• Significance Level: CAT 4

• Crew Treatment: No injuries

ReCAAP ISC Advisory

With 43 incidents reported in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore (SOMS) since January 2025, enhanced vigilance is advised for ships transiting SOMS. Additionally, littoral states should increase patrols and enforcement.

Abduction of Crew in the Sulu-Celebes Seas and Eastern Sabah

The Philippine Government’s efforts have led to a downgrading of the threat level regarding abductions for ransom in the Sulu-Celebes Seas and off Eastern Sabah.

Threat Level Re-assessment

• Previous Threat Level: Moderate Low

• New Threat Level: Low

• Reason: Efforts to dismantle the support base of the Abu Sayaaf Group (ASG) and continuous military operations have significantly reduced the likelihood of abductions.

ReCAAP ISC Advisory

• Ships are advised to exercise vigilance when transiting the Sulu-Celebes Seas and report incidents to the Philippine Coast Guard and Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM).

• No imminent threats are expected, but maintaining communication with relevant authorities is advised.