While underway, the master of the Marshall Islands-flagged Bilk Carrier NYON (IMO: 9888039 ) reported to Singapore VTIS West the sighting of five intruders armed with knives in the engine room. The alarm was raised, and the crew mustered to conduct a search aboard the ship. No intruders were found, and nothing was stolen.
A safety navigational broadcast was initiated, and the Republic of Singapore Navy's Maritime Security Task Force (MSTF) and the Police Coast Guard (PCG) were notified of the incident. Information was also shared with Indonesian authorities.
Upon the vessel's arrival at Singapore Anchorage, the PCG boarded the ship and conducted a thorough search but did not find any intruders. All crew members were accounted for, and no injuries were reported.
This incident brings the total number of reported incidents in the region to at least 30 this year, with 17 of those exhibiting similar characteristics and occurring within the Singapore Strait area.
|