The ReCAAP ISC has issued a warning to the maritime community about the continued occurrence of sea robberies within the Singapore Strait. This highlights the ongoing risk of such incidents in the region, reports ReCAAP.
Increase In Incidents
Between January 1st and February 3rd, 2025, a total of 11 incidents of sea robbery occurred within the eastbound lane of the Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS) in the Singapore Strait.
These incidents, characterized by the theft of engine spares, occurred near each other off Pulau Cula and Helen Mar Reef. A concerning pattern emerged with two incidents reported on the early morning of January 26th, two on the intervening night of January 28th and 29th, and another two on the morning of February 3rd.
In four incidents, perpetrators were observed carrying guns or gun-like objects, while in five incidents, they were armed with knives. The crew members were generally unharmed, with only one incident involving the Chief Engineer being tied up. The ReCAAP ISC expressed concern over the significant increase in incidents compared to the same period in 2024 when only four incidents were reported.
The Centre urges littoral States to increase patrols and surveillance, respond promptly to reported incidents, and strengthen coordination and information sharing to apprehend the perpetrators. Ships are advised to maintain heightened vigilance, especially during hours of darkness, and adopt preventive measures outlined in the Regional Guide 2 to Counter Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia.
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Source: ReCAAP
