Reports indicate that a drill ship being towed by an offshore tug was approached by unidentified individuals in a small boat. The tug's captain promptly sought help from the IMB Piracy Reporting Centre, which in turn contacted the MMEA.
A patrol boat was sent to the drill ship's location to conduct a search. However, no perpetrators were found in the vicinity of the drill ship.
The vessel has since continued to its next port of call.
Analysis: This is the fifth reported incident this year which occurred within the wider Singapore & Malacca Straits region; the first since 19 February.
In 2023, at least 67 incidents occurred within, or near, the Singapore & Malacca Straits.
Incidents in this area typically involve individuals armed with small knives or blunt objects. These robbers usually escape on detection, with stolen ships' properties, stores or cargo, with minimal violence occurring between crew and robbers.
Despite the recent decrease in 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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