Robbers hit six ships transiting the Singapore Strait in 48 hours

The incidents took place between 28 and 30 March involving three container ships, two bulkers and a tanker.The first incident occurred on 28 March at 06:30 hrs, a further two incidents were reported on 29 March between 04:08 hrs and 05:15 hrs and three incidents occurred on 30 March between 01:25 hrs and 02:55 hrs.

According to ReCAAP the robbers only managed to steal items in two of the incidents.   It said that one ship reported loss of a portable welding machine while another reported the loss of some engine spares.Fortunately, no crew members were injured in the incidents. There was no indication as to if the robbers were armed.

There has been a surge in robberies against ships in the Singapore and Malacca Straits in recent months with the latest incidents bringing the total number of attacks to 35 in the first quarter of 2025 compared to 11 in the same three-month period last year. Most of the incidents are in the eastbound lane of the traffic separation scheme in the Singapore Strait near the area of the Philips Channel.

“The ReCAAP ISC urges the littoral States to increase patrols/surveillance in their respective waters, respond promptly to incidents reported by ships, strengthen coordination and promote information sharing on incidents and criminal groups involved to arrest the perpetrators,” ReCAAP said.Ships are advised to maintain vigilance and a sharp lookout while transiting the Straits.