Robbery - Phillip Channel, Singapore Strait

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Incident Details

Incident Date & Time:

03 June 2025 : 01:56 UTC

Location:

Phillip Channel, Singapore Strait

Latitude/Longitude: 

1° 4' 0.00" N, 103° 40' 3.60" E

Vessel Name, Type, Flag & Status

Bulk Carrier, Underway, Singapore, Underway

Incident Type:

Robbery

Crew status

No injuries reported

Incident Details

Description

On June 3, 2025, at 01:56 UTC, an attempted robbery occurred aboard a Singapore-flagged Bulk Carrier while underway in the Phillip Channel, Singapore Strait. The crew sighted six robbers on a small boat, with one perpetrator attempting to board the vessel. Upon sounding the alarm, the perpetrators fled. The Master reported all crew safe, and the vessel did not request assistance. The ship continued to its next port of call in Singapore.

Response Actions

- Self-defense Measures

- None Mentioned

Stolen items

- None

Key findings

This incident demonstrates a typical modus operandi for opportunistic robberies in the Singapore Strait, with perpetrators using small boats for rapid approach and escape. The attackers' quick retreat upon the sounding of the alarm suggests they were not heavily armed or prepared for a prolonged engagement. The crew's vigilance and prompt activation of the ship's alarm system proved effective in deterring the boarding attempt, highlighting the importance of maintaining a proper lookout and having well-drilled security procedures in place. The location in the Phillip Channel, a narrow and busy waterway, provided the attackers with favorable conditions for their approach, emphasizing the need for heightened awareness in such high-risk areas.

Recommendations

- Maintain vigilant lookouts, especially during night transits through the Singapore Strait.

- Ensure alarm systems are operational and crew are trained in rapid response procedures.

- Consider additional physical security measures such as razor wire or water hoses in high-risk areas.

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