In the week of December 3-9, 2024, four incidents of armed robbery against ships were reported in Asia. These incidents occurred in areas classified as high-risk for such activities, according to Safety4sea.
Area of concern
With the incidents in SS, a total of 57 incidents (56 incidents in SS and one incident in Malacca Strait) were reported in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore (SOMS) since January 2024. The ReCAAP ISC advises ships to exercise enhanced vigilance when transiting SOMS and the littoral States to increase patrols and enforcement in these areas.
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 neutralization the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in the 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 of crew for ransom in the vessel 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.’
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Source: Safety4sea
