The report on armed robbery against ships in Asia for the week of October 1-7 indicates a single incident. This report also provides an update on a historically dangerous region for crew abduction.
Armed Robbery Incident
One Category 4 incident of armed robbery against a ship was reported to the ReCAAP ISC for the past week.
- Vessel Type and Location: The incident took place aboard a tanker at the Balongan Anchorage in Indonesia.
- Date and Time: It occurred on September 17, 2025, at 0045 hrs.
- Perpetrators and Outcome: Three perpetrators, who used unspecified weapons, were involved. No crew members were injured, but some ship stores were robbed.
Area of Concern and Advisory
The ReCAAP ISC recommends heightened caution in ports and anchorages.
- Regional Advice: The organization advises all ships to enhance vigilance and step up watch-keeping while at ports and anchorages in the region.
- Coastal State Action: The coastal State is urged to increase patrols and enforcement in the area of concern.
Abduction Threat Level Update
The report highlighted positive developments regarding the threat of crew abduction in the Sulu-Celebes Seas and waters off Eastern Sabah.
- Current Status: For the fifth consecutive year, no incidents of crew abduction have been reported in this area, with the last case occurring on January 17, 2020.
- Threat Downgrade: In January 2025, the Philippine Coast Guard, in coordination with stakeholders, further downgraded the threat level for ‘Abduction of crew for ransom in the Sulu-Celebes Seas’ to ‘LOW’. This classification means no information or monitored activities suggest an impending attack.
- Continued Vigilance: Despite the downgrade, the ReCAAP ISC advises ships to continue exercising vigilance when transiting the Sulu-Celebes Seas and to report any incidents to the operation centers of the Philippines and the Eastern Sabah Security Command.
General Recommendations
Ship masters and crews are strongly advised to report all incidents of piracy and armed robbery to the nearest coastal State and flag State. They should also continue to follow vigilance protocols and adopt appropriate preventive measures as outlined in the regional guides provided by the ReCAAP ISC.
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Source: Safety4sea
