Incidents in the Singapore Strait up by 8%

The number of vessel onboarding incidents in the Singapore Strait shows an increase with 8 percent. (Image: Risk Intelligence)

THE INSIGHT:

At face value the 8% increase in the total number of incidents recorded in the Singapore Strait is worrisome, however, it should be noted that 55% of these incidents were failed attacks.

Additional encouraging trends include the decrease of armed robberies from 20% in 2021 to 13% in 2022 and the infrequent cases of crew sustaining injuries during attacks. The perpetrators’ continued focus on bulk carriers and tankers is expected to continue.

The challenges for law enforcement agencies posed by the intersecting borders of Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore within the strait will continue to stymie the hot pursuit of perpetrators. Vessels in transit are most vulnerable, as no incidents involving vessels at berths or anchorages were recorded in 2022. Also, no container vessels were boarded in the strait in 2022.

The high frequency of failed attacks in the Singapore Strait might illustrate a higher level of awareness amongst crew on board the vessels in transit. Although no weapons were observed, it is likely that perpetrators of thefts are carrying knives that they are prone to use if confronted.

Download all 2022 annual figures:

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