Piracy and ship robbery in Asian waters surge in early 2025

Asian waters experienced a sharp rise in piracy and ship robbery incidents during the January–March 2025 period, marking a 53% increase compared to the same period in 2024, according to data from the ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre (ReCAAP ISC).

A total of 43 incidents were reported across the region in Q1 2025, up from 28 incidents during the same period last year—representing one of the most significant spikes in recent years.

As in previous reports, the Straits of Malacca and Singapore (SOMS) remained the most affected area, accounting for the highest number of incidents. ReCAAP ISC data shows 36 incidents occurred in the SOMS between January and March 2025, followed by three in Indonesian waters, and two each in Indian waters and the South China Sea.

In its latest weekly report (1–7 April 2025), ReCAAP ISC confirmed four new incidents of armed robbery against ships, all occurring while the vessels were underway in the Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS) of the Singapore Strait. No crew injuries were reported. However, engine spares and other items were stolen in three cases, while nothing was taken in the fourth.

With these latest reports, a total of 39 incidents have been recorded in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore alone since January 2025.

“The ReCAAP ISC advises ships to exercise enhanced vigilance when transiting SOMS, and calls on littoral States to increase patrols and enforcement in these areas,” the report noted.

Regional Conference Tackles Maritime Security Risks

In response to the rising threat, ReCAAP ISC, in collaboration with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS), held the annual Anti-Piracy and Sea Robbery Conference during Singapore Maritime Week 2025 in the final week of March.

The conference focused on the impact of geopolitical tensions, emerging maritime threats, and technological challenges on global shipping security and resilience.

In his keynote address, Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), emphasized that while new technologies offer opportunities, they also pose significant risks. He reaffirmed that piracy and armed robbery remain persistent threats, necessitating ongoing vigilance and regional cooperation.

Experts at the conference also raised concerns about the vulnerability of ships transiting the Phillip Channel, a narrow passage where vessels typically reduce speed—making them easier targets for unauthorized boarding.

Call for Coordinated Action

ReCAAP ISC issued three incident alerts between January and March 2025, highlighting a rise in robberies during early morning hours and a growing number of attacks on barges underway in the Singapore Strait.

Krishnaswamy Natarajan, Executive Director of ReCAAP ISC, called for a multifaceted approach to tackling piracy. He stressed the importance of international collaboration, enhanced naval patrols, and the active engagement of shipping companies, insurers, and national governments in developing effective strategies to ensure maritime security and the uninterrupted flow of trade.

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