The Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia (Recaap) has expressed concern over the continued armed robberies on vessels in the Singapore Strait.
According to a report by Recaap, the region has experienced a great deal of activity since the start of the year, with seven more incidents reported in 2020 compared to the same period in 2019.
“Of concern was the increase in the number of incidents on board ships while under way in the Singapore Strait during January-February 2020 compared to the same period in 2019. Eight incidents were reported in the Singapore Strait during January-February 2020 compared to one incident during the same period in 2019,” it said.
All eight incidents occurred on the eastbound lane of the Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS) in the strait, with none of the perpetrators having been apprehended yet.
In light of the increased incidents, Recaap has issued proactive measures for shipmasters and crew to follow in their fight against these pirates.
Enhance vigilance, raise awareness, maintain communication with law enforcement officials, and report all incidents of suspicious activity are a few of the safety measures Recaap has advised for vessels travelling through the region. – Bjorn Vorster
