- Direct Engagement with IMP Boosts Law Enforcement.
- CCTV Evidence Leads to Arrests of Two Criminal Gangs.
- Enhanced Patrols Drive Sharp Decline in Incidents.
From 2019 to 2024, the Singapore Strait averaged about 4.35 reported boardings each month. However, things took a sharp turn in November 2024 when cases jumped to 11, and then skyrocketed to 19 in May 2025, over four times the usual rate. This surge prompted immediate action, reports Risk Intelligence.
Direct Engagement with Indonesian Authorities
In June, an independent maritime stakeholder kicked off direct collaboration with the Indonesian Marine Police (IMP/Polairud). They discussed the extent of the problem and shared vessel movement data along with boarding reports to bolster enforcement efforts.
Evidence Sharing Leads to Key Arrests
As boardings persisted in July, especially targeting container vessels, operators provided vital CCTV footage to the IMP. This evidence helped authorities pinpoint two gangs operating out of Batam, leading to arrests that began on July 9. In addition to the arrests, the IMP ramped up patrols in the Phillip Channel and kept a close watch on VHF Channel 16 for quick responses.
Sharp Drop in Incidents After July
After the arrests, the number of incidents dropped significantly:
- 2 boardings in August
- 1 each in September and October
- 3 so far in November
While the threat hasn’t completely disappeared, activity has plummeted compared to early 2025. However, a third gang is still active.
Criminal Networks Shift to Other Illicit Trades
The remaining networks are thought to be diversifying, as the same small boats used for boardings are also ideal for:
- Contraband smuggling
- Migrant trafficking
Recent enforcement efforts may have pushed these criminals to explore other illegal activities.
Socioeconomic Factors in Batam
Batam’s unemployment rate, which has historically been higher than the national average, has decreased from 9.56% in 2022 to below 7% in 2025, a trend typically associated with lower crime rates. However, an uptick in drug-related activities is counteracting these positive changes.
The Rise of Methamphetamine Trafficking and Use
Batam has emerged as a crucial transit point for methamphetamine, with shipments making their way from the Golden Triangle through Thailand and Malaysia. Since 2023, drug smuggling incidents have been on the rise each year, and a record meth seizure in May 2025 underscored the island’s pivotal role in this trade. Alarmingly, drug use among those arrested is also climbing: several individuals detained in July were found with methamphetamine and confessed to using it while boarding. This points to the ongoing financial strain from addiction that seems to be fueling maritime crime.
Looking Ahead: Ongoing Risks Despite Recent Improvements
While there has been a drop in boardings, the slight increase in November raises some red flags: Are IMP patrols being scaled back? Are the remaining criminals reverting from smuggling back to boardings? Will the monthly statistics revert to previous levels? Future reports will provide more clarity. For the time being, those operating in the Singapore Strait should continue to implement robust protective measures to ensure the safety of their crews and assets.
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Source: Risk Intelligence
