Robberies targeting ships in the Singapore Strait continue at an alarming rate, with six new incidents occurring within a span of just 48 hours, according to the Regional Co-operation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia (ReCAAP).
The latest attacks took place between March 28 and 30, involving three container ships, two bulk carriers, and a tanker.
The first incident occurred on March 28 at 06:30 hrs, followed by two more on March 29 between 04:08 hours and 05:15 hours. The final three incidents happened on March 30 between 01:25 hours and 02:55 hours.
ReCAAP reported that in two of the incidents, robbers managed to steal items, including a portable welding machine and some engine spares.
Fortunately, no crew members were harmed, and there was no confirmation on whether the perpetrators were armed.
There has been a significant increase in maritime robberies in the Singapore and Malacca Straits, with the latest attacks bringing the total to 35 incidents in the first quarter of 2025—more than triple the 11 recorded during the same period last year.
Most of these incidents have occurred in the eastbound lane of the traffic separation scheme near the Philips Channel.
In response, ReCAAP has called on littoral states to enhance patrols, improve coordination, and share intelligence to apprehend those responsible. Ships transiting the straits have been urged to remain vigilant and maintain a heightened lookout to mitigate the risk of further attacks.
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