ReCAAP ISC received reports of two armed robbery incidents targeting ships in Asia, one classified as a CAT 2 incident and the other as a CAT 4 incident. The CAT 2 incident took place on a bulk carrier, while the CAT 4 incident occurred on a supply vessel. Both incidents occurred while the ships were navigating through the Straits of Malacca and Singapore (SOMS). During the CAT 2 incident, one crew member sustained a minor head injury due to assault, whereas no injuries were reported among the crew members of the supply vessel.
Area of concern
The recurring incidents in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore (SOMS) remain a cause for concern. With the recent addition of two more incidents, the total number of reported incidents in the SOMS since January 2023 has reached 37. The Center recommends that ships maintain heightened vigilance while transiting through the SOMS, and urges the littoral states to bolster patrols and enforcement measures in the region.
Downgrading of threat level
After thoroughly evaluating input from relevant stakeholders and partners responsible for ensuring the security of the Sulu-Celebes Seas, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) suggests a reassessment of the risk level associated with the ‘Abduction of Crew for ransom in the Sulu-Celebes Seas’ from ‘POTENTIALLY HIGH’ to ‘MODERATE.’ This revised classification indicates that while incidents remain a possibility, their severity is relatively less pronounced.
Update of ReCAAP ISC Advisory
Due to effective military operations and strong law enforcement efforts, the risk of crew abduction in the Sulu-Celebes Seas has significantly decreased since January 2020. As a result, the ReCAAP ISC has revised its Advisory, allowing ships to consider re-routing from the area as a possible option at their discretion. However, for vessels navigating through the region, it is strongly advised that ship masters and crew exercise heightened vigilance and promptly report any incidents to the Operation Centres of the Philippines and the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) in Malaysia.
Recommendations
It is essential for ship masters and crew to promptly report any incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships to the relevant coastal State and flag State, as indicated in the Contact Details for Reporting of Incidents of Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia poster. Additionally, they should remain vigilant and implement suitable preventive measures by referring to the Regional Guide 2 to Counter Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships in Asia.
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Source: Safety4Sea
