In recent maritime security assessments, a pattern of thefts in the Singapore Strait has emerged, characterized by the targeting of easily accessible items rather than cargo hijackings. The primary targets for these sea robbers are spare parts for engines and generators, scrap metal, as well as various ship stores, like padlocks and hand tools, including drills and jig saws. Interestingly, about half of the reported incidents in the area thus far in the year have concluded with the robbers leaving empty-handed.
The criminal activities are predominantly attributed to organized gangs operating from Indonesia, particularly the Riau Islands. According to maritime security researcher Ian Storey, these gangs often recruit local fishermen who are temporarily without work. The geographical isolation of some of these gangs in remote islands, like Pulau Cula, complicates law enforcement efforts. Toby Stephens of global maritime law firm HFW notes that the robbers exploit their surroundings, utilizing small vessels such as sampans to approach larger ships.
The methodical approach of the robbers typically involves targeting large bulk carriers and tankers during the early hours, particularly between 1 AM and 6 AM. Their tactics include ascending the hulls of ships using hooks or ropes to access the aft or stern decks. While the robbers are usually armed with knives and other makeshift weapons like hammers, they have displayed a pattern of low-level, opportunistic criminal behavior, with a few instances where firearms were involved.
Reported incidents in the Singapore Strait are categorized according to the level of violence and armed involvement. Most occurrences this year fall into Categories 3 and 4, indicating they are of lesser significance compared to more severe cases. A handful of incidents have been categorized as Category 2, where crew members reported being tied up but no serious injuries or threats to their lives were noted. So far, there have been no incidents classified as Category 1, which involves a larger number of armed perpetrators and more serious consequences like injuries to crew members or major thefts of the ship’s cargo.
Maritime security remains on high alert in the Singapore Strait, as these opportunistic crimes persist, largely unimpeded due to the remote locations from which the criminals operate.
