7 Cases Of Armed Robbery Reported In Singapore Strait In 2025

Cargo ship — Image for representation purposes only

Armed robberies against ships transiting the Strait of Malacca and Singapore Strait (SOMS) have continued to threaten the lives of seafarers.

Security consultants and the Regional Co-operation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery (ReCAAP) have warned of increased activity in the region, where 62 vessels were boarded and robbed in 2024.

Since the start of 2025, ReCAAP has received reports of seven armed robbery incidents. Six of the cases involved bulk carriers, while one targeted a general cargo ship. In six of these cases, the crew reported that the robbers were armed with guns, knives, or steel bars.

ReCAAP data showed that three of these incidents were reported in the past week alone, involving two bulk carriers and one general cargo ship.

The organisation pointed out that cases of armed robbery in the SOMS have increased sharply in the last quarter of 2024, with 27 cases reported compared to just seven during the same period in 2023.

The annual report of 2024 released by ReCAAP reveals that there was a 6% increase in reported maritime crime incidents across Asia, reaching a total of 107 cases.

This was the highest level recorded in the past five years and included the first incidents since 2020 where hostages were taken and fuel oil cargo was siphoned.

Of the 62 cases in the straits in 2024, 45 occurred in a small area off Pulau Cula, Indonesia. Per ReCAAP, bulkers are vulnerable due to their large decks, easily accessible holds, slower speeds, and smaller crews.

Unlike tankers, which have more secure cargo holds, bulkers are easier targets for robbers using small, fast-moving boats.

More incidents now involve robbers carrying knives and guns, and in some cases, they have used these weapons to threaten crew members. But no injuries or casualties have been reported so far.

However, crew members have reported the theft of spare parts and unsecured equipment.

Data from 2024 showed that 84% of incidents in the SOMS occurred at night, with the most dangerous time being between 2:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m.

Two more armed robbery cases were reported in January 2025 at anchorages in Indonesia and Bangladesh. In both cases, the robbers stole unsecured equipment.

While piracy incidents in Asia have increased, maritime crime in other parts of the world has declined.

The Gulf of Guinea, previously a high-risk area, remains stable. However, Somali piracy reemerged in 2024, with reports linking it to instability in the Red Sea and threats from Houthi militants.

ReCAAP had advised ship crews to remain extra cautious and asked local authorities to strengthen patrols and enforcement measures to address these crimes.

Reference: archyde

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