The Singapore Strait has seen a troubling rise in maritime robberies, with six ships reported as targets in May alone. The Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia (ReCAAP) has raised alarms about these incidents’ increasing frequency and severity, urging immediate action from local authorities.
Surge in Robberies
- Six ships were robbed in May 2025, with a total of 50 incidents reported this year.
- Most robberies occurred in the eastbound lane near the Phillip Channel.
- Perpetrators are increasingly armed, with reports of guns and knives.
- ReCAAP calls for enhanced patrols and vigilance from vessels in the area.
Overview of Recent Incidents
In May 2025, the Singapore Strait experienced a significant uptick in maritime robberies, with six vessels targeted. Notably, three incidents occurred within a mere hour and 15 minutes on May 7, while two others were reported just three and a half hours apart on May 2. These incidents predominantly took place in the eastern lane of the Singapore Strait, particularly near the Phillip Channel, a region that has become notorious for such criminal activities.
Nature of the Robberies
The majority of the reported incidents are characterized as robberies, where the assailants typically avoid direct confrontation with the crew. However, there is a growing trend of armed robberies, with some perpetrators brandishing weapons. For instance:
- On May 7, two individuals appeared to be armed with guns while boarding the Greek-owned bulk carrier, Virgo.
- Another incident on the same day involved two assailants wielding knives on the bulk carrier Hui Shun No. 1.
The incidents vary in scale. Some involve a single robber, such as the case of the MOL Singapore chemical tanker Elm Galaxy, while others involve groups of up to five individuals, as was the case with the UAE-managed product tanker S M A.
Increase in Incidents
ReCAAP has expressed serious concern over the dramatic rise in reported incidents. In 2025 alone, there have been 50 reports, a stark increase from just 14 incidents during the same period in 2024. This alarming trend highlights the region’s urgent need for enhanced security measures.
Recommendations for Vessels
In light of these developments, ReCAAP has issued several recommendations for vessels transiting the Singapore Strait:
- Increase Vigilance: Ships should maintain heightened awareness and lookouts, especially during nighttime hours when incidents are more likely to occur.
- Report Incidents Promptly: Immediate reporting of any suspicious activity is crucial for timely responses from local authorities.
- Strengthen Coordination: Enhanced communication and information sharing among vessels and maritime authorities can help mitigate risks.
Conclusion
The rise in robberies in the Singapore Strait poses a significant threat to maritime safety and security. With the region accounting for a substantial portion of reported incidents in Southeast Asia, local governments and maritime organizations must collaborate effectively to combat this growing menace. As the situation evolves, vigilance and proactive measures will be key to ensuring the safety of vessels navigating these waters.
