In the first quarter of 2025, Asian waters witnessed a significant surge in piracy and maritime robbery, with incidents rising by 53% compared to the same period in 2024. According to the ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre (ReCAAP ISC), a total of 43 incidents were recorded in Q1 2025, up from 28 incidents in Q1 2024. The Straits of Malacca and Singapore (SOMS) were particularly affected, accounting for 36 of these incidents. Additional incidents were reported in Indonesian waters (3), Indian waters (2), and the South China Sea (2).
A weekly report from ReCAAP ISC for April 1-7, 2025, confirmed four new incidents of armed robbery against ships in the Singapore Strait’s Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS). While no crew injuries occurred, items such as engine spares were stolen in three cases, with nothing taken in the fourth. As of April 2025, 39 incidents had been recorded in SOMS alone, prompting ReCAAP ISC to advise vessels to exercise heightened vigilance in these waters and for littoral states to bolster patrolling and enforcement efforts.
To address the increasing maritime security threats, ReCAAP ISC collaborated with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS) to host the annual Anti-Piracy and Sea Robbery Conference during the Singapore Maritime Week in late March. Discussions highlighted the impact of geopolitical tensions, emerging maritime threats, and technological challenges on global shipping security and resilience. Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), stressed the dual nature of technological advancements, which could both enhance security and present new risks. He reiterated the persistent threat of piracy and armed robbery, emphasizing the need for continuous vigilance and regional cooperation.
Concerns were also raised about the vulnerability of ships in the Phillip Channel, a narrow area that forces vessels to reduce speed, making them easier targets. ReCAAP ISC issued three alerts between January and March 2025, pointing out a rise in early morning robberies and an increase in attacks on barges in the Singapore Strait.
Krishnaswamy Natarajan, Executive Director of ReCAAP ISC, called for a comprehensive strategy to combat piracy, advocating for international collaboration, better naval patrolling, and active involvement from shipping companies, insurers, and national governments. The emphasis was on developing effective measures to ensure maritime security and maintain uninterrupted trade flow.
Overall, the rising trend in piracy and ship robbery in Asian waters demands urgent collective action from regional stakeholders to enhance maritime security and safeguard the interests of shipping and trade in these crucial waterways.
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