A ship en route to Singapore Anchorage from Brazil reported an incident of four armed individuals sighted in the steering gear room. The intruders fled when the general alarm was activated. The ship's captain reported the incident to the Singapore Vessel Traffic Information System (VTIS) and a search was conducted, but the intruders were not found. At approximately 0543 hrs, the captain confirmed that nothing was stolen and all crew members were safe, requiring no further assistance. The incident was reported to the Republic of Singapore Navy's (RSN) Maritime Security Task Force (MSTF), Singapore Police Coast Guard, and Indonesian authorities. Upon the ship's arrival at the Port of Singapore, a thorough search was conducted by the Singapore Police Coast Guard, but no intruders were found onboard.
Analysis: This is the third reported incident this year which occurred within the wider Singapore & Malacca Straits region.
In 2023, at least 67 incidents occurred within, or near, the Singapore & Malacca Straits.
Incidents within this region typically involve individuals armed with small knives or blunt objects. These robbers usually escape upon detection, with stolen ships' properties, stores or cargo, with minimal violence occurring between crew and robbers. However, based on the volume of incidents, vessel's operating in this region should remain vigilant, implement proper security measures, and report any suspicious activities to authorities.
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